WVVA TV Bluefield Beckley WV News, Weather and SportsUPDATE: Former Gov. Hulett C. Smith laid to rest

UPDATE: Former Gov. Hulett C. Smith laid to rest

UPDATE: BECKLEY (WVVA) - Colleagues, dignitaries and loved ones bid their final farewells to former governor and Beckley native Hulett C. Smith Friday.

Smith was laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park following a private funeral service at Presbyterian Church of Beckley.

A public service was held earlier in the day at Tamarack.

BECKLEY (WVVA) - Mountain State residents are gathering in Beckley to pay their final respects to a city native and former governor.

There was a somber mood at Tamarack ahead of the 4 p.m. public service in memory of former Gov. Hulett C. Smith, who died last week at age 93.

Thursday evening's public service is taking place in the theatre named for Smith at Tamarack. Earlier Thursday, the Smith family held a private wake at Melton Mortuary.

The public service is being called a celebration of Smith's life. Smith served as governor from 1964-68. During his time in office, Smith signed laws abolishing the death penalty and implemented the first strip mining regulations.

Read more on Gov. Hulett C. Smith

Smith's funeral service will be held Friday at 2 p.m. at Beckley Presbyterian Church. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. 

Do you remember Gov. Smith? What do you think about his legacy? Leave your comments below: