SMITH, Veda Watson

May 16, 1946 - August 23, 2026

MEMORIAL SERVICE

GATES FUNERAL HOME

2205 Cluster Oak Drive

Clermont, Florida 34711

Saturday, September 5, 2026

11:00 a.m.

In Loving Memory of Veda Watson Smith

May 16, 1946 – August 23, 2026

It is with gentle hearts that we announce the passing of Veda Watson Smith, who peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Veda was born on May 16, 1946 in Fort Wayne,

Indiana to the late Clevester Watson, Sr. and Evelyn Winn Watson.

Veda dedicated over 30 years of faithful service to public school accounting, bringing warmth, diligence, and precision to her work. Shortly following her well-earned retirement, she entered a long season of health challenges. Throughout it all, her friendly, lovable spirit and devotion to her Christian faith never wavered. Her family and friends find peace in knowing she is now fully restored in heaven.

She was preceded in death by her husband, "Chuck" Chester Lee Smith; father, Clevester Watson Sr.; mother, Evelyn Winn Watson; first Cousins, Alfonzo and Carnelle Watson.

She is survived by sisters, Ugerthal "Tulip" Smith, Vicky & Kim Gorman; cousins, Bruce & Crystal Stokes, Roy & Lorna Stokes, Dminia & Naieem Stokes as well as a host of other

cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A memorial service celebrating Veda’s life and faith will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel at Gates Funeral Home, 2205 Cluster Oak Dr, Clermont, Florida. We will have a brief service, followed by light refreshments and fellowship.

Family, close friends, and longtime church members are warmly invited to attend and celebrate her memory.

Comments

Veda will be greatly missed, but I know her and her brother, Bobby Lawrence are enjoying walking around Heaven together. My sis, I will cherish the memories of our outings, visits, and family dinners. Rest in peace. Your, sis in law, Shirley Lawrence.

My dear sister. It saddens me that I couldn’t do more to make your last years your best years. I am truly sorry that I wasn’t there for you during these last few years, but o know you have reunited with those you loved dearly that have gone before you. What a beautiful classy and intelligent woman you are and I will always love you. See you on the bright side. Your Sister Kimm Gorman 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾💔😥

My Condolences to the Family, Veda was a relative and dear friend to the Smith Family, your smile and laugh would be missed. Much Love Dwight

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Veda's unwavering encouragement and support was evident each day during our employment with OCPS. Her words of encouragement and infectious smile are clearly etched in my memory. May your cherished memories, friends, and prayers comfort you during the days ahead. Gwen Alexander

Veda was my older cousin on my dad side. ( Carnell ), She was a Beautiful person with a warm Spirit. Luv Beverly and Denise Watson. (Tara, Britt, Asiya and Elayah). Miss u cuz, from Sayreville, NJ