Michael J. Smith August 08, 1948 - November 07, 2023 Michael Joseph Smith, died of natural causes on November 7, 2023, aged 75, in Plant City, Florida. Born in Washington D.C. on August 8, 1948, Michael was the second of nine children born to Nelson and Patricia Smith (née Ryan.) He grew up in Falls Church, VA. Mike enlisted in the army in 1968 and spent his active duty serving in Okinawa. He attended Madison College, now James Madison University, graduating with a Master’s in Business. While a student at Madison, he helped start one of the first business fraternities on campus. After graduation Mike taught business courses at his alma mater and went on to have an active career in his family’s business until he retired. A connoisseur of the arts, he spent a lifetime amassing an impressive and eclectic collection of paintings and other artwork from many genres of art. His generosity knew no bounds and many of his friends and family are the happy recipients of some of his art collection. Mike’s main love, however, was theater. He spent much of his adult life volunteering as a set designer for Elden Street Players and Vienna Community Center. He seemed to come alive when creating and designing sets. He formed tight bonds and lasting friendships with fellow cast members and designers. He especially loved celebrating each successful production. Michael was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Patricia (Trish) Giles. He is survived by his daughter, Shannon Paige Smith-Williams, (Roane) and his son, Justin Michael Smith, (Desirea -née Perez). He is also survived by his siblings Rick Smith, Doug Smith, Lynn Pedrotti, Kathy Smith, Scott Smith, Jeff Smith, and Pam Montano. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Affectionately known as "Pops" by many of his children's friends, his house was a home where he always offered a warm, loving and safe environment to all who needed an extra hand. He will be sorely missed. A celebration of Michael's life will be held on December 2, 2023, at the Heritage Golf and Country Club located at 6901 Arthur Hills Dr, Gainesville, VA 20155 beginning at 4pm Eastern. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations in his memory can be made to the cause of your choice.