Ronald Joseph Smith

Ronald J. Smith, 79, of Siver Spring, Mayland died on 8 September 2023. Ron had been experiencing some heart complications but continued living a very active and exciting life right up until it was his time to join the recently deceased love-of-his-life, Sharie. He leaves behind his loving daughter, Cara Rynning, son-in-law, Sean Rynning, his adoring grandchildren, Hugh & Elizabeth Rynning, and his brother, Michael Smith. Ron, being a very social and friendly person, also leaves behind countless cherished friends, neighbors, tennis buddies, cousins, and extended family.

Ron was born on 3 October 1943 in Washington D.C. to Joesph and Mary Jane Smith. He lived a full and exciting life. He served his country in the United States Air Force, spent time aboard US Navy research vessels visiting shores abroad, and completed a long and distinguished career of public service at the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration and later at the National Weather Service.

In 1983, Ron met the love of his life, Sharon Brown, at Harpoon Hanna’s, on Fenwick Island, MD. Shortly thereafter, in 1984, they married and had their daughter, Cara. Ron was a devoted husband and father, who absolutely adored his family. They settled in Silver Spring where Ron remained ever since. Ron always made it a priority to attend his daughter’s sporting and school events, take her fishing and crabbing, and help with math homework in his patient and methodical demeaner. Some of Cara’s most cherished memories are of her and her father spending summers on the shore, playing in the sand and waves.

Ron retired in 2013 to enjoy more time at his favorite place: Ocean City. During his last decade he witnessed the marriage of his daughter and the addition of his grandchildren, Hugh and Elizabeth. Ron, or “grandaddy” as he came to be known, loved spending time with his grandchildren at the beach, pool, or park and was always prepared for visits with an unlimited supply of popsicles, cookies, and toys. Sadly, his wife, Sharie, was taken by cancer in 2021. Ron took excellent care of her and stood by her until the end. The last two years of his life were filled with time with grandchildren, tennis, the beach, and longing for Sharie. Ron will be greatly missed by those that loved and knew him. A visitation will be held on September 28th, 10 A.M. to 12 P.M., at the Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home at 11800 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20904. The internment will follow at 1 P.M. at Union Cemetery, 3001 Spencerville Road, Burtonsville, Maryland 20866.