Larry Daniel “Breeze” Smith, 59, of Monterey, Virginia, passed away Aug. 10, 2026 at his home.
He was born Aug. 25, 1966, in Alexandria, Virginia, a son of Bernice (Shifflett) Smith and the late Emmett Dale Smith.
Mr. Smith, also known by his CB handle, Breeze, was a retired over-the-road truck driver with 42 years of dedicated service to the trucking industry. During that time, he accumulated more than three million road miles, not one accident, and maybe a couple speeding tickets or more.
Always known for his earnest work ethic and inability to sit idle, he took a position with the town of Monterey, Virginia, following his retirement. There, he enjoyed visiting with the townspeople and took pride in working for the betterment of the community. He faithfully maintained that position throughout his illness.
Amongst his many interests, he was a true outdoorsman. He was a passionate hunter and fisherman with many trophies to attest to his skill in the woods.
Also, he loved his bikes and riding his Harley through the mountains of both Virginia and West Virginia. Additionally, he enjoyed playing electric guitar, as well as listening to and attending hard rock concerts, most especially his favorite artist, Ozzy Osbourne.
Surviving family members include his wife and best friend, Denise S. (Botkin) Smith of Monterey, Virginia; his mother, Bernice Smith of Monterey, Virginia; two stepchildren, Justin Botkin of Washington State and Ashley Trentzsch of White Sulphur Springs; a nephew, Dale Smith of Staunton, Virginia; a niece, Anna Mae Brown of Elkton, Virginia; an aunt, Patsy Varner and husband, Sonny of McDowell, Virginia; father-in-law, Dennis Botkin of McDowell, Virginia; grandmother-in-law, Beulah Botkin of McDowell, Virginia; sisters-in-law, Cindy Fawley of Moorefield and Roberta Stanley of Burnsville, Virginia; a brother-in-law, J.R. Botkin of McDowell, Virginia; a number of extended family members; the family cat, Chewy; and his friend’s dog, Cooper.
He was also preceded in death by a brother, Garry Smith.
A graveside funeral service was held Aug. 13 at the Monterey Cemetery with Chaplain Howard Pendley officiating. The family received friends immediately following the committal service at the cemetery, and during a meal of fellowship following the service in the Highland Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Friends were also encouraged to call upon the family at other times at the homes of his wife and mother.
Active pallbearers included Trey and Colton Williams, Timmy Crafton, Dave Perryman, Ian Brown, Doody Conner, and Mike McMullen.
Additionally, Jay Garber and Larry’s close friend, Skeeter, served as honorary pallbearers.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Larry Smith Memorial Fund, c/o Blue Grass Valley Bank, PO Box 516, Monterey, VA 24465.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.obaughfuneralhome.com.
