S.L. ‘Smokey’ Housden

Age 87, Stanley, Va.

S.L. “Smokey” Housden, 87, of Stanley, Va., died peacefully at his home on Monday, September 18, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones.

Smokey was born on September 2, 1936, in Stanley. He was the son of Clarence S. Housden and Elton V. Housden.

He graduated from Stanley High School in 1955 and went on to serve his country with pride for 36 years through the United States Army and Army Reserves, retiring with rank of Sergeant Major. He also simultaneously served for more than 25 years in a civil service capacity at the The Pfc. Raymond Flair Memorial U.S. Army Reserve Center, Frederick, Md. He was extemely proud of his time with the 558th color guard, and also training several local marching groups the proper color guard protocols and procedures.

After his military career, he went home to Stanley where he continued to enjoy a number of positions for several years. He was a member of the Leake’s Chapel Church of the Brethren in Stanley. 

He is survived by his wife, Peggy L. Housden; his daughter, Yvette M. Florian and husband Keith; and a grandaughter, Jessica D. Shelton. He is also survived by three sisters, Martha Graves and Carolyn Dovel of Stanley, and Bonnie Dovel of Shenandoah; and several very special nieces and nephews.

Smokey was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Betty Painter, Emma West and Nancy Campbell; and two brothers, William C. Housden and Robert “Buddy” Housden.

There will be a memorial service at 2 p.m. on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at the Leake’s Chapel Church of the Brethren, conducted by Tracy Shifflett. The family will receive friends from from 1 to 2 p.m., which will be followed by the memorial service at 2 p.m. and the burial immediately afterwards in the church cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, Smokey requested donations be made to the Leake’s Chapel Church of the Brethren Men’s Fellowship.

Arrangements are being handled by The Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.