Howard Lee Smoot, Jr.

Gloucester – Howard Lee Smoot Jr. passed away peacefully at home on June 9th, 2023.
Friends knew him as H.L., but he was also “Dad” to his four children, and “Papa” to six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, who will miss him dearly. Survived by his loving wife of nearly 68 years, Vivian, who called him “her rock.” He is also survived by his children, Cynthia Smoot Weller (Bill), Valerie Ruark (Tom), Brian Smoot (Barbie) and Kelly Gdovic (Rick). He is predeceased by his parents, Howard (Buster) and Aldredge Smoot, and his brother, LaVerne Smoot. Born and raised in Seaford, H.L. was a member of the first graduating class of York High School in 1955. Soon after, he married his childhood sweetheart and went to work at Newport News Shipbuilding, then on to White Insurance Agency and Morgan Marrow Insurance. H.L. was a former Navy reservist, aviation and boating enthusiast, and lifelong member of Zion United Methodist Church in Seaford where he’ll be laid to rest. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 13th at 11 a.m. Reception to follow. Donations may be made to the Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 2109 Seaford Rd., PO Box 240, Seaford, VA, 23696 in lieu of flowers. And the Lord said, “Well done oh good and faithful servant. Come and share your master’s happiness. Matthew 25:23.