November 30, 1963 – May 10, 2023
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.”
On Wednesday, May 10, 2023, our hearts were sadden when our beloved, Alphonso V. Smith, age 59, of 406 Wilson Avenue, Colonial Heights, VA, affectionately known as “Fonzo”, departed this life to be with the Lord.
Alphonso was born on November 30, 1963, to the late Alberta Smith, and Howard Baum. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jacqueline Chapelle; granddaughter, Taylor Rose; and his beloved in-laws, Herbert and Annie Walker who loved him like a son.
Born and raised in Norfolk, VA, he graduated from Maury High School, and went on to continue his education at Norfolk State University. As a member of the Norfolk State Spartans Football team, he was proud to be a part of the NSU 1984 CIAA Championship team, where he served as captain of the team from 1982 through 1986. In 1984, he was voted All CIAA Offensive Lineman of the year.
In 1983, while attending NSU, Alphonso met his lifelong friend and former spouse, Michelle Walker Smith. They were married in Petersburg, VA, in 1988. During their union they raised two beloved daughters.
Alphonso gave his life to Christ, and was baptized at Zion Baptist Church, Petersburg under the leadership of Dr. Andrew J. White, Sr. He was employed at CJ Logistics at the onset of his illness, and recently Allied Security at Bon Secours Hospital.
He leaves to honor and cherish his memory: two beloved daughters, Jalesha Smith, of Colonial Heights VA, and Tiara Smith of Petersburg, VA; three grandchildren, Janiya Carter, Kirby Rose, Jr., and Kirleel Rose all of Colonial Heights, VA; a sister, Sabrina Smith and a brother Robert “Bobby” Smith, both of Norfolk, VA; two aunts, Altora Holley, and Adlena Moody both of Norfolk, VA; and a host of other nieces, nephews, family members, and friends. Among them is an adored niece, Taquisha “Cricket” Seymore, and nephew, Robert “Lil Bobby” Tyler; lifelong friends, Michelle Walker-Smith (the mother of his children), Marvin “Cowboy” Brown, Donnell Wood, Roger Parks; and devoted friend and caretaker, Marita Lipscomb.
Alphonso will forever be remembered by his infectious smile, comedic wit and his love for the ‘Elements’, the legendary musical group Earth, Wind & Fire. In all things we will trust in the Lord, it is well with our soul.
A memorial service will be held 2:00 P.M., Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Andrew J. White, Sr., eulogist.
J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.