GySgt. Reuben “Smokey” Harry Colwell Jr. (USMC Retired)

GySgt. Reuben “Smokey” Harry Colwell Jr. (USMC Retired), 86, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Carolina East Medical Center.

A funeral service to honor Smokey’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 29th at Munden Funeral Home in Havelock. Interment will follow at Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service. For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed through his obituary page on Munden Funeral Home’s website. The service will remain on the Funeral Home website for 90 days.

Born on March 26, 1938, in San Diego, California, Smokey was the son of the late Reuben and Alice Colwell. He honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a Gunnery Sergeant after a distinguished career that included serving as a Vietnam Veteran. His patriotic spirit and dedication to his country were evident throughout his life. After his military service, Smokey devoted 20 years of his career to Civil Service at Cherry Point with Fleet Readiness Center East.

A valued member of the community, Smokey was active in organizations such as VFW Post 7315 and The Military Order of the Cootie. He also served as the past president of the Concerned Biker's Association, reflecting his passion for motorcycle riding.

Well known and deeply appreciated for his unique personality, Smokey was well-loved for his warm personality and his willingness to lend a helping hand to others. Known for his culinary talents, he participated in the Newport Pig Cookin’ Contest and proudly won the State Champion Chili Cook-Off, later having the honor of serving as a judge for the Chili Festival.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Kerrie Colwell of Youngsville, NC; brother, John Colwell (Renette) of Prescott, AZ; along with four grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; and his sidekick, his dog, Joey.

In addition to his parents, Reuben was preceded in death by his precious wife of 64 years, Rosalie "Mama Lee" Colwell, who passed away in 2023; and his sister, Norma Lynn Colwell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Cremations in Havelock, NC.