Mr. Bertram Smithen

Bertram Leroy Smithen, Jr. affectionately known as “BJ” or “Bert” was born on May 22, 1975, Brooklyn, New York, to the late Bertram L. Sr. and Bernadette Idita Smithen.

Bertram L. Smithen Jr. was a loving devoted son, loving father, wonderful grandfather and a caring brother, cousin, and friend. He was a courageous entrepreneur that took advantage of what life had to offer, all while doing it as only Bert could do.

Bertram went to various public schools until being relocated to Newport News, Virginia. He was a proud graduate of Menchville High School, Newport News, VA, class of 1993.  Upon graduation he earned a degree at Stratford University for Culinary Arts in 1996. Where he continued to show his love through his favorite love language, food. Being known as a wonderful chef in various employments.

As a father, Bertram was wise and strong, giving his three sons, Sharod Lakeem, Malachi Leroy, and Byram Lazarus Smithen the love, patience and strength they would need in life. He enjoyed singing with them, even called them “The Smithtones” embracing his culture with his children through music. He took pride in their lives and loved to support and embrace them through all achievements and challenges.

Bertram was a wonderful grandfather who cared and showed up and out for his four wonderful quartets. He would instill in them love, creativity, joy, happiness, and peace knowing that “Poppy” would always be up for an adventure.  

Bertram was a devoted son whose care and dedication to his family was unmeasurable. As a brother and uncle, a fantastic cousin along with being a devoted friend. He was a man that loved life to the fullest, traveling, enjoying music especially Go-Go Music. Bert was known for being “life of the party.” He didn’t discriminate when it came to sports, a die-hard New York Giants and Yankees fan.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Sharod (Marquita) of Newport News, Virginia, Malachi, and Bryam of Fredericksburg, Virginia, his brother Brian (Lauren) of Maryland, grandchildren, Cheyenne Marie, Jeremiah Mi’Kel, Charity Monét, Josiah Maurice Smithen, Cousin Valerie Nesbitt of New York, many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertram Sr. and Bernadette Smithen.

May the love he shared, laughter he brought, and the lessons he taught live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in eternal peace Bertram – you will be forever missed and cherished.

It is the desire of the Smithen family that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Mr. Bertram Smithen Jr., has entrusted his final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

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