Mr. Thomas Claxton Smith
01/27/1951 - 10/04/2026
Mr. Thomas Claxton Smith, age 75, of Powhatan, Virginia, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. Thomas began his early career as the Assistant Manager of W.T. Grant Co. in South Hill until later taking a position with the Richmond Times Dispatch where he worked for 43 years until he retired as the Metro Circulation Manager. In 1985 he was installed as the Worshipful Master of Joppa Lodge #8 in Henrico County; he also served as Vice President of the Car Club Council of Virgina and President of the Virginia Street Rods Inc. Thomas was a loving and compassionate son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He never met a stranger and was a mentor and friend to all who knew him. He considered his greatest accomplishment to be passing down his knowledge of fishing, appreciation of classic cars, and his love for life to his children and grandchildren. Thomas was an eternal optimist and always looked at his cup as half full! Among those Thomas Smith leaves behind to cherish his memory are his wife of 53 years, Cynthia Gill Smith; his daughter, Christy Smith Urban of Glen Allen; his son, Thomas “Carter” Smith (Kristine) of Leesburg; his grandchildren, Kennedy Demaris Urban, Sydney Marie Urban, Charlotte Ashby Smith, Thomas Edward “Teddy” Smith, Virginia Grace Smith; a brother, Clint Smith, Jr. (Jill) of Huntley, Illinois; his sisters, Katherine Smith Arthur (Michael) of Victoria and Hilda Smith Jackson of Kenbridge; as well as several loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents Clint Smith and Mary Eunice Slaughter. The family will receive friends Monday, October 12, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at Crowder – Hite – Crews Funeral Home until the service at 2:00 P.M. with burial immediately following at Oakwood Cemetery of South Hill. The family suggest donations to Bon Secours Richmond Healthcare Foundation, attn: Cardiac Wellness Fund; 920 Libby Avenue, Suite 100; Richmond, VA 23226. Online condolences may be made on our website at www.crowderhitecrews.com. Crowder – Hite – Crews Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Smith Family.
So sorry for your loss. You have many memories to cherish. Prayers are with you.
Forever Friends
From the first time we met Tom and Cynthia, we knew how much they loved each other and how much they cared for family and friends. Tom and Cynthia were a dynamic duo of laughter and fun. They were warm and kind to everyone they met. We moved away but no matter how many years had passed by, when we saw them again the connection was like we had only been away for a few days. They made you feel at home. We are so sorry Tom has left us but he will live in our hearts forever. Thank you for all the laughter and love Tom! Love always, Ann ♥️Bill 🙏
Tom was the nicest, kindest man I have ever met. My heart goes out to dear Cynthia and her family. May this wonderful man ret in heavenly peace.
Roark
To Tom’s family,
I was so sorry to hear about Tom’s passing. He was a kind man and a true gentleman, and he always made my family and me feel welcome.
Tom and I shared a love of cars, and he was always generous with his compliments on mine. One of my last memories of him is from just a couple of months ago. He waved me down from his lawnmower at the end of his driveway while I was hauling my ’70 Chevelle on the trailer. He told me how much he loved the car, and we stood there talking cars for a good while. I’ll treasure that conversation.
I know Tom faced some real physical challenges and a lot of pain over the last few years, and I hope he’s finally at peace. He will be truly missed.
Remembrance
Our family grieves over the passing of Tom. Tom and Cynthia were not just friends; they are members of the family. We always enjoyed being together, especially when watching our granddaughters dance and sharing holiday dinners. I always enjoyed Tom’s Hotrod stories and he would respectfully listen to my British car dilemmas. Tom, we will miss you greatly, but you will never be forgotten.
Rest In Peace Bud!
Widow of James E Johnson
James worked with Tom Smith for years at the Times Dispatch. I remember him mentioning the discovery that they had roots from working summers at the same summer job.
I offer condolences to the Smith family at the loss of your loved one. The ties of Richmond Newspapers has connected many people.
Chip Purvis / Asphalt Angels Car Club
We are saddened to hear this!
Rest In Peace My Friend…
Tom Smith
Sorry to hear about Tom . Prayers to your family.from Jane & Harold.
Sgt. at Arms, The Virginia Street Rods
When I was accepted for membership 37 years ago I knew I would be making new acquaintances, and some would become great friends. I never thought that a select few would elevate to brother status. With Thomas passing I feel as if I have lost a brother. I am sure that all of the club members that he met over the years are now praying for his family. Rest in Peace Tom
family friend
May God bless and comfort the family at this very sad time.
Dearest Cynthia and family
We are so sad to hear of Thomas’ passing and are so very sorry, but he is now at peace and whole with no more suffering and sickness. He was a very kind and loving person and tolerated his sisters and their friends when we were all young and hanging around. We know he will be missed by so many. We pray that God grants each of you love and peace during your sad times and that your memories will help you remain strong. God Bless You All!🙏🙏
Sending prayers
An amazing man with an amazing family! So many wonderful memories. Sending prayers to the entire family. ❤️
Cynthia, Christy and Carter
We are so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Thinking of you all at this sad time.
Childhood/High School friend
My heart aches to hear the news that Thomas has gone to his heavenly home, but it is nice to know that he is pain free at last. What a wonderful guy he was in school always wanting to be a good friend no matter what the circumstances. A kind smile and giving heart to all he met. Gonna miss him. Rest in peace dear friend!! My prayers and deepest sympathy to Cynthia and all of his dear family.
friend
Thomas was a good friend and a good man and best I remember very quick to help others. May his memory never fade. Rest in peace bud.