Grover Williams Smiley, age 78, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on November 30, 2024. Grover was born on May 13, 1946, in Charlottesville, Virginia. He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude Elliot and Frances Alease Tolley Smiley, his brother, Claude Smiley, and sister, Patricia Smiley. Grover is survived by his wife of 50 years, Paula Smiley, and his children; Jeff Smiley, Krisy Hammill (Cliff), and Jennifer Smiley-Gill (Kevin). He was the proud grandfather to six grandchildren; Lauren, Tyler, Hayden, Matthew, Cole, and Ella. Grover dedicated over 27 years of distinguished service to the Charlottesville Fire Department, retiring in 2000. Throughout his career, Grover exemplified an unwavering commitment to public safety as Deputy Chief and head of Building and Life Safety. His leadership and expertise shaped countless initiatives prioritizing the community's well-being, leaving an enduring legacy of safety and preparedness. He proudly served as a past President of the Virginia Fire Prevention Association. Through the University of Maryland/Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute, he taught military firefighters the skills needed to pass arduous DOD certification exams in the US and abroad. After retiring he owned and operated GSI Services, a residential and commercial inspection business serving Central Virginia. Grover had a passion for storytelling, golf, and surf fishing in the Outer Banks. The family would like to give special thanks to Hospice of the Piedmont and the Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire & Rescue. � � � � Grover wished to be cremated with a private service to be held at a later date. Donations in his memory can be made to Hospice of the Piedmont or Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire & Rescue. An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com Compassionate Cremation Services of Ruckersville, VA is handling the arrangements.