Robert Lee Smith, 76, of Norfolk, passed away Sunday September 15, 2024 peacefully at his home. He was born October 7, 1947 in Hazelton, Pennsylvania to the late Stanley Robert and Mary Kathryn`Smith. He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Elena, his step-daughter Daryia Biarozkina, her fiancé, Patrick Lanier, and his step-son, Danil Biarozkina of Bellarus.
Robert had a varied career including spending 20 years in the United States Marine Corps, school teacher and football coach in Virginia Beach public schools, engineer at NASA, and police officer for both Norfolk and Tampa, Florida. He proudly fought for his country and did 2 tours in Vietnam Nam, was injured 3 times, received 3 Purple Hearts and was the only one of 18 of his high school classmates who returned home. No man was ever prouder to be a Veteran and he was rarely seen in public without a veterans ball cap.
Robert was a Christian and accepted the Russian Orthodox faith after marrying his wife, Elena. He was also a Native American and was very proud of his heritage in the Black Foot tribe. He had a great love for his family, friends, nature and all animals but especially his pets, both dogs and cats alike. He enjoyed family dinners, especially on patriotic holidays, trips, and long conversations on the patio and by the fireplace. He was bigger than life and will be missed by all who knew him.
The family will receive friends and guests at 1 pm on Friday September 20 at Rosewood & Kellam Funeral Home on Witchduck Road with the Celebration of Life held immediately following. A graveside service will follow at Rosewood Kellum Memorial Park.
