On Aug. 11, 2026, mother Famie Virginia Winters Smothers, age 96, entered eternal rest and peacefully answered the Master's call. 

Famie was born on Nov. 6, 1929, in Fairfield to James Charles Winters and Lottie Christian Winters. She was the oldest of five children. After moving to Lexington, she attended Lylburn Downing School.

Famie met the love of her life, Esray George Smothers, and they were united in marriage. From their union, five children were born: Louise, James, Paul, Linwood and Joyce. Later, there was another special addition to the family, Delsa.

Famie dedicated 45+ years of faithful service to Washington and Lee University, where she worked as a supervisor in the snack bar. She was known for her diligence, professionalism and commitment to excellence throughout her career. Upon retiring, Famie relocated to Tennessee, New Jersey and New York, where she lovingly cared for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished spending time with her family and enjoyed life to the fullest.

Famie was known for her calm, quiet, and laid-back demeanor. Her warm smile, gentle spirit, and caring heart touched countless lives. Whether through a kind word, a listening ear, or her faithful presence, she made those around her feel loved and valued.

She was also known for her famous rolls and her love of baking and cooking. She never let anyone leave her home without offering them something to eat. Famie had many close friends and always made sure she kept up with all the town news. She had an excellent memory and was the family historian. She knew everyone's date of birth, date of death, and wedding anniversary, and she never seemed to forget a detail.

A woman of unwavering faith, Famie was a faithful and devoted member of New Hope Church of God in Christ under the current leadership of Elder Donald E. Conner, Jr. for more than 40 years. She faithfully served as a Church Mother, and her love for the house of God made her a pillar of the New Hope family and an example to all who knew her.

Famie leaves to cherish her precious memory her beloved children, Louise Smothers, Esray James William Smothers, Paul Albert Smothers (Carol) and Joyce Smothers Johnson; her cherished grandchildren, Carla Moore (James), Delsa Fauconier, Patrice Hopkins, Paris Smothers, Patrick Smothers, Parren Smothers, Javon Smothers, Erica Smothers and Robin Smothers; her cherished great-grandchildren, Kaleb, Avari, Kaliyah, Amari, Alexandra, Aden, Andraya, Madison, Marley, Mia and Maddux; her beloved brother, Albert Winters (Dorothy); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Famie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Esray George Smothers; her son, Carl Linwood Smothers; her parents, James and Lottie Winters; and her siblings, Samuel Lennie Winters, Marie Brown and Betty Johnson.

Though she will be deeply missed, Famie's love, wisdom. kindness, faith. and beautiful memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, at Trinity United Methodist Church (147 S. Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) by Elder Donald E. Conner Jr. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. at the church.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.