Friendship Appoints Eddie Smith to Board of Directors

ROANOKE, Va. – Friendship, a leader in senior living and rehabilitation services in Southwest Virginia, announces the appointment of Edward “Eddie” M. Smith, CIC, to its board of directors.

Smith brings more than three decades of business leadership experience, along with an extensive record of service to organizations throughout the Roanoke Valley. He currently serves as managing director of the Roanoke office of Marsh McLennan Agency, a leading international risk management and insurance firm. He previously served for several years as co-leader of the company’s national healthcare practice and continues to work closely with regional and national clients. Prior to beginning his 30-year career with Marsh McLennan, Smith worked in commercial banking.

A graduate of Washington & Lee University, Smith earned a Bachelor of Science degree with Special Attainments in Commerce.

Smith has a long standing commitment to community service and currently serves on the boards of the Carilion Clinic Foundation and Mill Mountain Theatre. He is a past chairman of Total Action Against Poverty, Inc. and has served numerous other organizations throughout the region, including the Rescue Mission Foundation, Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce, Harrison Museum of African-American Culture, Mill Mountain Zoo, North Cross School and YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. He has also supported fundraising efforts for numerous nonprofit organizations throughout the region. In 2025, Smith was recognized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society with its Silver Hope Award.

Joe Hoff, president and CEO of Friendship said, “Eddie has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the Roanoke Valley through both his professional leadership and decades of service to our community. His business expertise, understanding of healthcare and genuine commitment to strengthening the organizations that serve our region will be tremendous assets to Friendship. Board Chair, Dr. Lucian Y. Grove, M.D., said, “We are pleased to welcome him to our board and look forward to the perspective and leadership he will bring as Friendship continues to grow and serve seniors throughout Southwest Virginia.”

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