Mrs. Jane C. Volchansky of Madison, Virginia sent me this obituary for Dr. J. Doyle Smith. It appeared in the local paper (name unknown) dated May 25, 2011.
Dr. J. Doyle Smith died on Sunday, May 22, 2011, in Richmond, Virginia.
Doyle was born in Charlottesville on January 27, 1921, to Lemuel and Grace Stulting Smith. His father was a Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia.
Doyle graduated from Lane High School and attended the University of Virginia, where he received the B.S., M.S., and Ph. D. degrees with majors in chemistry and organic chemistry.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers, Downing and Minor Smith; his wife Nancy Page Smith; and a daughter, Elizabeth Page Smith.
He is survived by his son, Stephen Doyle Smith of Richmond; a sister-in-law, Margaret Smith and her son Downing and daughter, Susan; and a sister-in-law, Bobbie and her husband, Russell Mooney. Also by Jim, Bob and Angie Mooney, whom he considered his grandchildren, and Maggie, Jonathan, Emily, Colin and Garrett Mooney, whom he considered his great-grandchildren.
In 1946, he began his teaching career in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the Medical College of Virginia as an associate.
He advanced through the ranks to professor in 1962 in the School of Pharmacy. After serving for one year as acting chairman, he became the chairman of the Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Chemistry in 1962 and served in that capacity until 1974. In 1980, he received the Distinguished Service Award for outstanding contributions in the advancement of the profession of Chemistry.
Doyle was a member of Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church where he sang in the choir for many years. He was a member of a number of scientific and professional societies and was known for his many research interests.
A graveside service will be conducted 2 p.m. Thursday, May 26, 2011, at Monticello Memory Gardens with the Reverend Kim Wells officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Bon Secours Hospice, 5875 Bremo Road, Richmond, VA or to the J. Doyle Smith Award c/o VSU School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry, P.O. Box 980581, Richmond, VA 23298-0581. Doyle was a scholar, a gentleman and an exemplary Christian.
Friends may sign the register book at http://www.hillandwood.com/.
