Robert "Butch" G. Smith

Born and raised in Hamilton, Ohio, Butch graduated from Hamilton Catholic High School before attending The Ohio State University on a football scholarship. As a proud member of the 1968 National Championship team, Butch formed lifelong bonds with his teammates and remained deeply connected to the Buckeye football brotherhood. He was a member of the Varsity “O” Club for more than 55 years, a source of pride and fellowship throughout his life.

Butch was the kind of person who never met a stranger. A gifted storyteller, a lifelong optimist, and the life of every room he entered, he made people laugh, feel loved, and feel seen. He was a man of deep and unwavering faith, which influenced every part of his life: from the way he loved his family to the grace and strength he showed throughout his health journey.

He lived generously, laughed easily, and never failed to brighten others’ lives with his kindness, humor, and joyful spirit. He believed in focusing on what you could control and often reminded others to “Live where your feet are planted.”

For over 50 years, Butch served the Columbus area as a respected realtor and broker, proudly holding membership in the Columbus Board of Realtors. He also found joy in boating and gathering with friends and family at Indian Lake, one of his favorite places to relax and create lifelong memories.

He leaves behind his wife, Sue Smith; his daughter, Kristie Smith (Jeff Northup); his son, Scott Smith (Maggie Smith); and five grandchildren he treasured dearly: Ayva Friermood, Brynn Friermood, Gavin Smith, Charlotte Smith, and Cecelia Smith.

He is also survived by Sandy Sauer (Eugene, deceased), Tim Smith (Kathy Smith), Jerry Bauer (Teri, deceased), Bill and Nancy Flick, Diane and Larry Cox, and Tom and Judy Bauer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Smith and Theresa Artner Smith; Charles and Claire Bauer; and other cherished family members.

Those who knew Butch will remember his joyful spirit, his bear hugs, his faith, his love of Buckeye football, handing out Tootsie Pops to his grandkids, his boating adventures at Indian Lake, and his deep, unconditional love for others. He cherished every moment spent with family and believed deeply in the importance of connection and kindness.

When asked how he’d like to be remembered, Butch said, “As the best son, brother, husband, father, and Papaw I could be.”

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 25, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Westerville, Ohio. Before the service, the family will be receiving guests in the church vestibule from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. for those wishing to visit the family and pay their respects.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Universal Health and Hospice of Logan County, 921 Rush Ave Bellefontaine, Oh 43311 or the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer, 4980 Blazer Pkwy Dublin, Oh 43017; a cause close to his heart.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to nurse Cindy from Universal Health and Hospice, aide Patty, and to his dedicated personal caregiver, Tanay, whose compassion and presence offered extraordinary comfort in Butch’s final chapter.

Butch lived a life rooted in faith, filled with love, laughter, and connection. His legacy lives on in every person he touched.