Vearl A. Smith

Vearl A. Smith, 84, of Danville, passed away at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, May 21st, 2011 at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center. Vearl was born on August 29th, 1926, in Danville, the son of Claude and Lucille (Sowers) Smith. He previously married Barbara Wilson on June 29th, 1947 in Danville. She preceded him in death in March 15th 2006. From that marriage they had one daughter- Vearlina (J.R.) Thomas of Champaign. He married Pat A. Krise on February 14th, 1980 in Danville. She survives. He is also survived by a step-daughter- Kelly (Rob) Meeker of Brookston, Indiana; three grandchildren- Kelly Rushing, Dale McElhaney and David McElhaney; eight great-grandchildren- Gabriel Mcelhaney, Damon McElhaney, Brian Rushing, Chloe McElhaney, Jack Rushing, Jake McElhaney, Emma McElhaney and Nathan McElhaney; one sister- Rosedna Dempsey of Georgetown; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-daughter- Heather Dawn French; two brothers- William Smith and Donald Ray Smith; and two sisters- Naomi Carter and Nicena Parke. Vearl attended Danville Schools. He served in the United States Navy from 1944 to 1946. Vearl starting working at General Motors in 1949, and retired from there in 1986. He was a life member and past two term commander of VFW Post #728, member of the American Legion in Westville and a past member of Moose Lodge #1001. He enjoyed working in his yard and around his house. Vearl also enjoyed reading, watching John Wayne movies and telling stories about the war. He especially loved to spend time with his family and friends. A Graveside Service for Vearl A. Smith will be at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 25th, 2011 at Danville National Cemetery, with Drew Mentzer officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, a Life Celebration Home. Memorials may be made to St. Judes Childrens Hospital. Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.