Lester Donald Smathers

Lester Donald “Red” Smathers, 90, of Colonial Heights passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Born on July 7, 1934, Red was preceded in death by his mother, Mabel Reed Nelson, his father, Isaac L. Smathers, and his brother, Joel K. Smathers. 

Red was a beloved figure in his community, known for his vibrant spirit and dedication to his family and country. Red graduated from Schoolfield High School, Danville, VA. in 1951 and soon after joined the US Army. His time in the military was marked by a commitment to excellence and a deep sense of duty, values that he carried into his civilian life. 

After his military service, Red began his career at Dan River Mills in Danville, VA. In 1961, he relocated his family to Richmond, VA, where he was employed by Allied Chemical. In the late 70‘s Red embarked on a successful career preparing income taxes and selling real estate for Swearingen Realty. He founded Red’s Tax Service, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to serving his community.

 Beyond his professional life, Red was an avid golfer, fisherman, and square dancer and enjoyed coaching Little League Baseball for several years. Red is survived by his daughter, Rhonda S. McCall (Dave) his son Lester D. “Donnie” Smathers, his sister, Lois Nelson Hatcher (Mike), his grandson, Jason D. Campbell (Sara) his great-granddaughters Madison R. and Allison L. Campbell and numerous nieces and nephews. 

 The family will receive friends from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 26, 2024, in Southlawn Memorial Park, 1911 Birdsong Road, South Prince George, VA, 23805. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Crater Community Hospice, 3916 South Crater Road, Petersburg VA. 23805. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.