Joshua Paul Smith

Joshua Paul Smith, formerly of Keysville, passed from this life on June 24, 2017 at the age of 32.   He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Melba J. Smith and Tina Maselli.

Josh, or “Moose” as many knew him, is survived by his parents, Rev. Ted and Sylvia Maselli Smith of Keysville; two siblings, Benjamin Smith of Rice, and Michelle Smith of Keysville; paternal grandfather, Tedd Smith Sr. (Marie) of Moneta, maternal grandfather, Rev. Aldo Maselli of Cranbury NJ; many adoring aunts, uncles; and cousins; and wife Melissa Daniels Smith. Josh is also survived by many admiring friends, colleagues and students.

From a young age Josh was a natural at mechanics. He repaired Granpa Aldo’s old lawnmower, a mini-bike, four wheelers, cars and pickups.  If it could move, Josh wanted to make it move faster.  Josh possessed a gift of diagnosing problems and finding solutions, with vehicles and people.  He had a deep empathy for others which came across in all his relationships.

Josh lived out his love of trucks and muscle cars in many ways. He and his best friend, Kevin Currin (Jessica & Scott) were partners in K & J Motorsports; an enduring friendship forged in mechanics school, demolition derbies and the Hornets Class at South Boston Speedway.  Josh was also long time mechanic for owner/driver Charles Barnes (Wanda) of Fort Mitchell (#64).  Josh shared his mechanical knowledge for many years as an Auto-Diesel Instructor at Southside Community College’s Diesel/Auto School at Fort Pickett.

Josh was a gentle soul who will be missed by family and friend alike. We look forward to reuniting with our Joshua before Jesus the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25).

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 2, 2017 at Ash Camp Baptist Church, Keysville at 2:00 p.m. with burial to follow in Ash Camp Cemetery.

Browning-Duffer Funeral Home, Keysville is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the SVCC Foundation/Josh Smith Automotive Scholarship, 109 Campus Drive, Alberta VA, 23821.