11/18/2025
Loretta Rose “Rosie” Smithson, 91, of Glenville, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 15, 2025, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly. Born March 15, 1934, in Fairdale, WV, Rosie was the daughter of Ildon and Bertha McMillion, who preceded her in death.
Rosie grew up with a gentle spirit and a quiet strength that stayed with her throughout her life. Though she often called herself “shy,” anyone who truly knew her would smile at that—because Rosie had a warmth and sweetness that drew people in. She was kind, soft-spoken, and steady, yet full of life, laughter, and love for her family.
On October 25, 1950, she married the love of her life, Carl William “Doc” Smithson. Together they built a home that was always open, always welcoming, and always filled with the sound of family. Rosie was blessed with four children: Elginia G. Logan (Martin), both of whom preceded her in death; Carl W. “Sonny” Smithson Jr. (Darlene Gay); Melinda R. Fitzpatrick (Dennis); and Anita C. Roberts (Owen “Buzz”).
Rosie adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with her whole heart. She found joy in simple, meaningful moments—Sunday drives, long conversations around the table, hugs at the door, and telling stories about the people she cherished. Before her health declined, she especially enjoyed trips to Ocean Isle Beach with family, where she soaked in sunshine, laughter, and memories. She was blessed to travel to Grand Cayman Islands, New York City, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and Walnut Creek, Ohio, among other places—experiences she treasured and spoke of often.
Rosie attended Trap Hill High School. At age 14, she met JoAnn Smithson, who would become not only her sister-in-law, but her closest and most loyal friend for 77 years—a testament to Rosie’s deep capacity for love and lifelong connection.
Rosie was baptized in 1952 in an ice-covered river, a testament to her unwavering faith. She continued her faith as a member of the Sand Fork Church of God.
In addition to her parents, husband, daughter Elginia, and son-in-law Martin, Rosie was preceded in death by brothers Ildon McMillion Jr., Dale McMillion, Carl McMillion, and Albert McMillion; sisters Mary (McMillion) Griffith and Jean (McMillion) Cozart; and one granddaughter, Carla Renee Smithson.
Left to honor her memory are her children Carl W. “Sonny” Smithson Jr. and wife Darlene Gay of Glenville; Melinda R. Fitzpatrick and husband Dennis of Glenville; and Anita C. Roberts and husband Owen “Buzz” of Coxs Mills, WV.
She also leaves behind grandchildren Amanda (Jason) Poole; Lea Ann (Julian) Phares; Tabatha (David) Beall; Martin Logan Jr.; Matthew Roberts; and Hannah (Dalton) Burton; great-grandchildren Adam Beall (Miriam), Luke Beall (Jordanne), Dalton Logan, Kyle Logan, Sarah Logan, Logan Phares, Rachel Phares, Ryan Phares, Owen Phares, Isaac Poole (Autumn), Jacob Poole, Leah Poole, and Blake Burton; and great-great-grandchildren Addie Beall, Kane Beall, and Ellie Poole.
Rosie is additionally survived by a host of nieces and nephews on both the Smithson and McMillion sides of the family.
Rosie is also fondly remembered by her special friends Ellen Minney and Angie McCumbers who helped provide compassionate care during her later years.
More than anything, Rosie loved her family—and her family loved her fiercely in return. Her hands were gentle, her words soft, her heart steady. She built a legacy of kindness, faith, and quiet strength. The example she set will continue to guide those who loved her for generations to come.
A celebration of life will be held at Sand Fork Church of God, at 2:00 p.m., on Sunday, November 30, 2025, with a meal following immediately after. A private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: WV Caring Hospice, PO Box 323, Rt. 1 Box 43C Burnsville, WV 26335.
The family would also like to express their gratitude to Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., for their support during this difficult time.