Neil Wayne Smith Jr., affectionately known to friends and family as “Turk” or “Turkey,” took his final blow on March 2, 2026. Born on November 26, 1964, in Richmond, Virginia, he remained a true son of the area throughout his life. Though his time here was cut short, he rocked through sixty-one years with the volume turned all the way up.

To say Turk had a big personality would be an understatement. He was a force of nature who possessed an incredibly sharp mind and a quick wit. However, his greatest gift was his ability to make people laugh. Life around him was never dull. Though he was larger-than-life for those who knew him best, what will be missed most is his enormous heart. He cared deeply for his people and lived life unapologetically on his own terms.

His passions were as loud and vibrant as his personality. A lover of music and a talented drummer, Turk found his rhythm behind a drum set, always ready to keep the beat. He also held a lifelong enthusiasm for the Dark Knight, maintaining a dedicated fandom for Batman that never wavered—perhaps recognizing a kindred spirit in the complex hero. He was truly unique, brilliant, and undeniably himself until the very end.

Turk was preceded in death by his parents, Neil Smith Sr. and Sheila Smith, as well as his sister, Shannon Hudson.

His legacy—and his laughter—are carried on by his surviving family: his brother, Kenneth Hudson Sr. (MaKenzie and Connor); his niece, Savannah Hudson (Alex, Bryce, Presley, Blake, and Carter); his nephew, Kenneth Hudson Jr. (Haylie and Iyla); his lifelong friend, Steve Maxey; and the many close friends he truly considered family.

True to his wishes, there will be no traditional funeral service. Turk wanted his departure to be remembered with good music and good times rather than sadness, so the family invites you to a gathering in his honor.

A Celebration of Life for The Man, The Myth, The Legend will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Glendale Ruritan Club, 6188 Charles City Road, Richmond, VA 23231.

As we remember Turk, we leave you with words that capture his spirit:

“The road of life winds through both pleasure and pain. Living on the edge keeps you aware of its fragility. The journey is messy, but it’s worth every step. The rebel spirit fuels change in an unchanging world. Even a beast of burden deserves moments of rest. Even shattered stones can form a beautiful mosaic.”

Forever a Rolling Stone.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/neil-smith-jr/obituary/

Copy