Roger Arvin Smith

Born in Buffalo, NY, on February 20, 1935, Roger was the only child of Earl Arn and Albertha Lee Wilson Smith. He accepted Christ as a child and was baptized at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Buffalo, NY.

A devoted husband to his beloved wife, Mary Eleanor “Ellie” Smith, for 64 years until her passing in December 2023. Of their union came two sons, Michael Bradford and Kevin Arvin. Roger was also blessed with three children from a previous marriage: Thomas René (deceased), Michelle Opal, and Pamela Regina.

Known affectionately as “Smitty,” Roger joined the United States Air Force on July 27, 1955, serving as an Aircraft Crew Chief. His tours of duty included Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and the Azores Islands, among others.

After retiring from the Air Force, Roger continued to serve his country through his work with the Department of Veterans Affairs and as a Department of Defense contractor for companies including Rockwell, Lockheed, and AMARK. A proud BMW (Black Man Working), he later retired from contracting and began his final professional chapter as a Veterans Benefits Officer, where he helped countless disabled veterans navigate the VA system and secure their earned benefits.

Roger’s favorite pastimes included bowling, playing cards, reading, and cheering for his beloved Boston Celtics, Buffalo Bills, and UConn Women’s Basketball team.

Of all the things Roger loved in life, nothing compared to the deep devotion he had for Ellie, his children, and his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Ellie; his parents, Earl and Albertha; and his eldest son, Thomas.

Roger’s life and legacy are celebrated by his children: Michelle Delaine of Houston, TX; Pamela Smith of Buffalo, NY; Michael (Shawn) Smith of Atlanta, GA; and Kevin (Annette) Smith of Tucson, AZ; his grandchildren Allen Delaine (LaShawn), Bearret Delaine (Jessica), Robert Smith, Bradlei Smith, Andre Smith, Daniel Jelks III, Micah Smith, Gabrielle Smith; his great grandchildren Alexis Delaine, Asia Delaine, Riley Smith, Khalia Jelks, Leilani Jelks; and his great, great grandchild Kari Burrell and his beloved and cherished caregivers: Yesica Fierros, Aishah Muhammad, and Grace Gowett.