Michael Smithley

Michael Smithley, born March 8, 1949, died August 10, 2025.
Mike grew up in York County.He put a $100 down on a wooded lot he saw just once, at midnight, with his neighbor, Wilbur. He built his dream home in the woods where he lived out his remaining life. His idea of traveling was going to Poquoson.
Mike first saw Pat, his wife of 55 years, on the track field at York High school; whereby he told his friend – that’s who I’m going to marry. Sure enough he did! Their marriage produced 2 fine sons, 2 granddaughters, and 2 great-granddaughters. They were the love of his life.
Mike’s father was a York County gunsmith. Mike grew up having the York County deputies always stopping by to have Jim Smithley work on their guns and to shoot at his gun range. His love and respect of law enforcement led Mike to joining the Newport News police department, soon moving into the K-9 division, where he remained until his retirement 27 years later. He loved going to work with his dogs, and his friends and family all loved listening to his adventures.
After retirement he delved into his other passion – restoring and painting toy tonka trucks. He earned a reputation and had people from all over saying no one else could restore their toys like Mike did.
A visitation to celebrate Mike’s life will be held Saturday, August 16th, from 3-5 at Amory Funeral Home in Grafton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Newport News Police Foundation, Memo: K-9 unit/vest, PO Box 120496, Newport News, VA 23612. Donations will be used to purchase bullet-proof vests for their 3 new K-9’s – K-9 David, K-9 Ramsez, and K-9 Roscoe.