Charles Alvin (Buddy) Smals, 81, of Buena Vista, Virginia, died Friday, Jan. 30, 2015, at his home.

Mr. Smals was born February 15, 1933, in Grottos, the son of the late George Russel Smals and Ruby Lynn Smals.

He was a member of the First Brethren Church, where he held the positions of youth leader, Sunday school teacher, deacon, moderator and music director.

He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a member of the American Legion.

Mr. Smals retired from Burlington Industries.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret Surface Smals; and a stepdaughter, Martha K. Duff.

Mr. Smals is survived by his wife, Wanda Keyes Smals; three children, Ronald Alvin Smals, Kathy Smals Adcock and Donna Smals Cole; four stepchildren, Betty K. Trainer, Larry Keyes, Barbara Keyes and Billy Keyes; one brother, James R. Smals; one grandson; one great granddaughter; eight step-grandchildren; 12 step great grandchildren; and one step-great-great-grandchild.

The funeral was conducted at 2 p.m. on Monday, February 2, at the First Brethren Church by the Rev. Mike Hamilton, Rev. W. David Bain, and Rev. W. A. Mills. Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery.

The family received friends one hour prior to the service at the church, and any time at the Smals' residence.

The Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Service handled the arrangements.

(The editor notes this very brief obituary with a bit of regret, having worked with Mr. Smals for a long period of time when, years ago, he helped the Rockbridge Weekly get distributed on time week after week.
He was a delightful man, devoutly religious and caring, and his good humor and good nature made him a pleasure to have around. I hope I speak for all former Rockbridge Weekly employees when I say that he was both an inspiration and lovely person - one we'll always remember.)
Jerry E. Clark, Clifton Forge, VA.