Richard "Bud" Goodson Gill, Sr.

Richard “Bud” Goodson Gill, 98, of Smithfield, passed away at home, Thurs., June 23, 2022, surrounded by his family.  Born June 7, 1924, in Smithfield, VA, he was the son, of the late Robert Henry and Margrette “Madge” Goodson Gill.  He graduated from Smithfield High School in 1943, enlisted and served proudly in the U.S. Marine Corps (1943-1946), and served in Guam during WWII.  Bud returned home and worked at Smithfield Ham & Products, Co.  He then went to work as head lumber salesman at Kirk Lumber Co. in 1946 and retired 61 years later as Exec. VP in 2007.  He was a long-time member of Christ Episcopal Church where he served on the Vestry and various committees.  He was a lifetime member of American Legion Post 49 and served as Sergeant of Arms.  He was also a member of the VFW.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Joyce Helmick Gill.  Survivors include his sons, Richard “Dickie” G. Gill, Jr. (Nancy) of Smithfield, Gene H. Gill (Vickie) of Newport News, daughters, Robin G. Williams (Brad) of Ft.  Smith, AR, and Joanna G. Bateman (Doug) of Smithfield; granddaughters, Evie Upton (Phillip), Leslie McAllister (Philip), Lindsay Wilson (Maurice), Megan Gotliffe (Blake), Alison W. Richins (John), Taylor Campbell, Kristine Bateman, and grandsons, Joshua Bateman, and Daniel Williams; and 15 great-grandchildren. 

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2022,11:30 a.m. at Ivy Hill Cemetery, Smithfield, Va. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 a.m., Thursday, prior to the service at Little’s Funeral Home.  The family would like to thank his caregivers for the loving support and care they provided during his final years.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Preservation Fund of Christ Episcopal Church, 111 S. Church St., Smithfield, VA 23430.  Online condolences maybe registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.