Ethel Even Sunbeam Smith Dozier was born March 14, 1943 in Plymouth, NC. She was the daughter of the late George Smith and Captora Joyner Smith. She was a longtime resident of Hampton, VA and transitioned from labor to reward on February 19, 2016.

She graduated from Washington County Union School in Roper, NC. She attended North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in History and also a Master's degree in Education. She retired from Newport News Public School, spending most of her career at Hilton Elementary School. She also retired from Washington County Public Schools in 2013.

Ethel loved life and her family during her 72 years. During childhood, she received the Lord at Spring Green Church of Christ (Disciples of Christ). While living in Hampton, she attended Hampton University Memorial Chapel and in recent years worshipped at St. James United Methodist Church. She was also a member of Queen Esther Jewel Chapter No. 32 Order of Eastern Star. She was always interested in current events and was particular about reading the newspaper each morning to stay abreast of local and world news, politics, business and entertainment. She especially enjoyed watching sport events and was an avid fan of Coach K and the Duke University Basketball Team.

Ethel leaves to cherish her memories, husband- Willie L. Dozier; daughters- Angelita Maria Dozier and Aileen Elizabeth Dozier; her mother of 98 years- Captora Joyner Smith; brothers- Frederick Smith, Thornton Smith, Richmond Smith, James Smith, Samuel Smith; sisters- Florentine Downing, Mary Louise Duren; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and best friend LaVerne Triggs.

Ethel was preceded in death by her father, George Smith, sister, Beryl Garrett, and brothers, Monroe and Emmett Smith.

Funeral services were 12:00PM February 27, 2016 at Toodle's Chapel with Bishop Samuel Smith, officiating. Burial followed in Ellis Lee Cemetery.