Colonel Vea Joan Smith (Retired USMC), passed away on August 5, 2024 in Hospice care after a health battle for the past 2 years. She was the daughter of Chester C. and Glendora J. Smith, formerly of Ashley, Ohio and Indian Harbor Beach, Florida.

Vea Jo was an avid golfer, a devout Christian, involved in numerous charities, she gave a large portion of her earnings to help enrich peoples lives. Vea Jo had an illustrious career and was a highly decorated officer. She received The National Defense Meritorious Service Award three times (which is the highest non-combat award an officer can receive). She received so many awards they are too numerous to list. She served from 1955-1979.

She graduated from Hyatts High School and was a Wilmington College Alumni.

She is proceeded in death by Chester C. Smith, father; Glendora Jones Smith, mother; Patricia Dell Warren, sister; Jacqueline Lee White, sister; and J. T. White, grand nephew. She is survived by Mary Jane Smith (Palm Bay, FL), sister; John G. White (Sunbury, OH), brother-in-law; Nancy Carroll (Melbourne, FL), longtime military friend; James C. White (Marion, OH), nephew; John P White (Sunbury, OH), nephew; Jeffrey D. Warren (Delaware, OH), nephew; and Julie J. Vigar (Delaware, OH), niece. She also leaves behind Mike White, grand nephew and two great-grand nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Vero Beach First Baptist Church Family Center on Sunday, August 25 at 4:00 PM.