Thomas Junior Smith, 65

DOVER - Thomas Junior Smith, completed his life's journey and went home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2008, in his home in Dover, just 5 days shy of what would have been his 66th birthday. He was born on Oct. 19, 1942 in Ridgely, Md., to the late Charles D. and Edna Viola Smith, the second son of five children. Thomas received his early childhood education in the public school system in Caroline County Maryland. After graduating from Moton High School in Easton, Thomas joined the United States Air Force and served for four years. Upon returning home Thomas enrolled in the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, in Princess Anne. He would later receive his Bachelors of Arts Degree from Delaware State University and a Bachelors of Theology Degree from Christian Life School of Theology in Salisbury. Thomas taught in the Dover public school system as a substitute teacher and was later employed at General Foods where he worked for 38 years. After retiring from General Foods, Thomas worked as a school bus driver until his health began to fail. Thomas was also a member of the Thunder Guards Motorcycle Club. He loved to ride his big Harley Davidson bike and reluctantly sold his "hog" just a few years ago. Thomas joined Calvary Baptist over ten years ago, and joined the Senior Usher Board. Thomas was dedicated to his church and could always be depended upon to be on duty when the Senior Ushers were needed to serve. Thomas loved his grandchildren. "Pop Pop" as he was affectionately called, loved to take his grandchildren to the Delaware State Fair each year and lavish them with all kinds of goodies and treats. He loved to spoil them and they loved to be spoiled by their Pop Pop. Thomas is preceded in death by his brother, Melvin Smith; his sister, Magdalene Beulah; and his youngest daughter, James Evans. He leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Lisa Moaney of Dover; one brother and sister-in-law, William and Mary-Francis Smith of Hillsboro, Md.; one sister and brother-in-law, Melvin and Gloria Beulah of Denton, Md.; five step-children; nine grandchildren, Stacey, Tevon, Tajiri and Taijir Henry, Danasia Cobb, Fletcher and Beyonce' Tilghman, and Xvaier Evans; three aunts; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; and his good friend, Jonathan Jeffcoat. Viewing will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Bennie Smith Funeral Home in Dover. Services will be 10 a.m. Friday at Calvary Baptist Church on Fulton/Queen Street, Dover, where friends may view two hours hour prior. Burial will be in the Veteran Cemetery in Millsboro.