Dr. Theodore R. Smith, beloved husband and father, known affectionately as "Mike" to everyone who loved and respected him, passed away Sunday, March 1, 2015 due to complications from renal failure. He was 73 years old.

Mike was born and raised in Norfolk, VA, the youngest of two boys born to Peter Joe and Mildred Smith. He attended Virginia State University, then Hampton University, and finally received his doctorate in education from the University of Maryland. He served his community for over 30 years as an educator working for the Norfolk Public Schools system, starting in the classroom as a science teacher, and eventually becoming a principal. His longest tenure as a principle was at Granby High School, where he served for twelve years.

His greatest and most important legacy, however, is that of the love and fond memories he leaves behind to all those who knew him, especially his beloved wife of fifty-three years, Lettie and his four children, Dr. Michael Tucker of Norfolk, VA, Angela Hayden of Richmond, VA, Theodore Smith of Washington, DC and Ira Nathaniel Smith of New York City. He's also survived by five grandchildren, all of whom knew and loved him very deeply.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday at St. Thomas AME Zion Church. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Viewing will be held from 3-7pm Wednesday at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake. Condolences can be offered to the family at www.pretlowandsons.com.