Robert Lee Smith

Robert Lee Smith, 75, passed away September 10 at his home in Marina. Robert was born in Union, South Carolina, to Annie Mae Smith. After her untimely death, Robert was raised by his beloved aunt, Sally Wilkins, in Asheville, North Carolina

Upon high school graduation, Robert enlisted in the Unites States Army where he served honorably for over twenty years as a drill sergeant, first sergeant, and military police officer. He was awarded the Bronze Star and two Army Commendation medals. Robert was a veteran of the Vietnam War, and as such, was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8679, Seaside, California. After retiring at Fort Ord in 1977 with the rank of Master Sergeant, he made the Monterey Peninsula his home.

Robert earned his Associate of Arts degree in psychology from Monterey Peninsula College. He was a supervisor for Friends Outside, in Salinas, where he mentored countless young men, forming long-lasting bonds.

Robert was a longtime motorcycle enthusiast, and especially enjoyed getting together for camaraderie and leisurely rides with his fellow motorcycle enthusiasts known as The Nightriders. As a member of the Nightriders, he was affectionately known as “The Guru”. Robert was a founding member of the Seaside Jazz Art Show Committee. His leisure time was filled with his love of fine cars; his pet dogs—most recently his buddy, Cesar; cheering for the Dallas Cowboys; and the Backyard Round Table, held at the home of longtime friend, Cle Maben.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Sharon Smith, Regina Middleton, and Ebony Smith; sons, Tracy Smith and Robert Smith ,Jr.; grandsons, Marcus Smith and Steven Middleton; granddaughters, Genesis and Heaven Smith; great-grandson, Angelo Middleton; former wife, Elease Smith; and longtime companion, Marguerite McSween Fearn. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Shirley Jean and Gloria Lynn Smith and his former wife, Terry Smith. Although Robert had no biological brothers, he considered Cle Maben, James (Tom II) Thomas, and Ronald Chambliss his brothers in life.

Memorial services will be held at Bayside Community Mortuary in Seaside, this Tuesday, September 23, at twelve o’clock noon. To honor Robert’s memory, donations may be made in his name to the Central Coast Veterans Cemetery Foundation, PO Box 849, Marina, CA, 93933 or online at www.ccvcf.com.