James Orlandor Smith

Lt. Col James Orlandor “Lanny” Smith (retired USAF/Office of Special Investigations), from Lanexa, VA, passed away at his home on Friday, June 2, 2023. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Beverly Smith; parents, James and Josephine Smith; and a great-granddaughter. He is survived by his wife, Betty Smith; daughters, Deborah Smith Gillaspy (Michael), Susan Smith Finn (John), Jennifer Smith Saunders (Jim), Karen Rogers Foraker (Carl); brothers, Warren Smith (Kathy), Keith Smith (Lucy); sister, Kim Ivey (Gordon) and six grandsons, two granddaughters, and four great-grandchildren, who called him Grand Bubba or Boppa.

Lanny graduated from James Blair High School in 1956 and shortly thereafter enlisted in the United States Air Force. He faithfully served his country in many overseas locations and in the United States for over 30 years before retiring in 1987. Lanny especially enjoyed his home on the Chickahominy River where he shared holidays with his family and entertained his friends on many occasions. Fishing was one of his favorite hobbies, but he enjoyed playing golf with his buddies most of all. He was a lifetime member of Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church where he assisted with many church activities. Lanny was also a member of the Chickahominy Masonic Lodge 286 in Toano, where he served as Worshipful Master in 2010. A visitation will be held on Friday, June 9, 2023, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Mt. Vernon, 7801 Church Lane, Toano, followed by the funeral service. Interment with military honors will immediately take place at Williamsburg Memorial Park, 130 King William Dr. Williamsburg, VA. Following the graveside service, a reception will be held at the church. Lanny’s family would like to thank the Amesdisys Hospice of Williamsburg for their service, especially his loving and dedicated nurse, Amy Gernon; Carrie Murdoch, nurse’s aide; and nurse Lindsey Gray-Sheppard. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church.