Robert G. Smith

In the gentle wake of a life well-lived, it is with fond remembrance that we honor the departure of Robert Gerald Smith, affectionately known amongst his kin and friends as Big Bob. He was born in Astoria, New York, on September 26th,1946. Big Bob tapped in his final putt on Saturday, January 4th, 2025 at home in Little River, South Carolina, following a brave and brief skirmish with liver cancer.

Bob found his heart's companion in the love of his life, Dianne, who shared 56 years by his side through every adventure. Together, they raised a trio of children: Tracy, Steven, and Dennis. Son-in-law Neel and daughter-in-law Gina joined in the family fun. The branches of his family tree flourished, expanding to include grandchildren Carisa, Kayla, Sean, and Payton, and the tender great-grandchildren Timothy and Ryder, all of whom revelled in the joy of calling him Pop-Pop. Bob is preceded in death by his parents Gerald and Irene(Griffin), brother Bill and sister Patty. He will be missed by his brothers Jimmy, Rich, John, brothers- in law, sisters-in-law, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Bob’s early years were marked by the honorable service as a medic in the Air Force during the Vietnam War era. He subsequently spent three decades as a computer programmer for the Department of Commerce specializing in meteorology research for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The emerald fairways of River Hills and the Valley Golf course knew well the tread of Big Bob's feet, where he could often be found with a beer and a cigar. His love for the game of golf rivaled that only of his love the NY Yankees and the NY Giants. His laughter echoed through the corridors of the Calabash American Legion and the Little River Elks Lodge, where he stood shoulder to shoulder with friends.

But of all the roles that Big Bob embraced, none was more cherished than that of Pop-Pop. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he enjoyed driving his girls to Irish dancing and revelling in the success of Sean’s football and Payton’s swimming and water polo matches. He also enjoyed playing with his grand-dogs, Brittany, Hogan and Parker.

In the company of his Lafayette Park family, Big Bob was a fixture as constant as the lake around which they gathered. He was a presence that invited conversation, laughter, and the warmth of communal fellowship. He was a man who lived not for himself but for the joy and betterment of others, a man whose memory will be cherished as a treasure beyond the weight of gold.

A celebration of Bob’s life will take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 11:00 am with the family receiving friends at 10:00am at Lee Funeral Home in Little River, South Carolina. A luncheon will follow at the Little River Elks Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, please raise a beer and toast to a life well lived. Bob’s legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family and friends will surely be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Slán go fóill