Beloved Matriarch Helen Irene Smith Passes Away at 96

Helen Irene (Peters) Smith, a cherished mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on September 2, 2025, in Reva, Virginia. Born on January 31, 1929, in Dungannon, Virginia, she was the second of seven children born to the late Robert L. Peters and Ethel M. Peters.

A proud alumna of the Dungannon High School class of 1946, Helen dedicated her life to her family and community. She was known for her passion for gardening, fostering a vibrant hummingbird community on her screened porch. Her commitment to service extended to her faith as a member of the Culpeper United Methodist Church, where she was actively involved in the Edith Burton Circle.

Helen is survived by her two sons, Kevin D. Smith and his wife, Janet, of Ellicott City, Maryland, and Craig A. Smith, who resides in Germany. She also leaves behind two beloved grandchildren, Ryan and Rachel, as well as her brother, Robert Peters, and sister, Mary Hawthorne. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Lewis C. Smith, as well as her sister, Evelyn Royer, and brothers, Frank, Raymond, and Morris.

Helen’s interment will be private and scheduled for a future date. In honor of her memory, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Culpeper United Methodist Church, located at 1233 Oaklawn Drive, Culpeper, VA. Contributions can be made online at https://www.culpeperumc.org/give.

Preddy Funeral Home, located at 59 Edgewood School Lane, Madison, VA 22727, is entrusted with the arrangements. Helen’s legacy of love and community service will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.