Robert E. Smith

Robert E. Smith was born in Jersey City, NJ on December 20, 1929. He died peacefully at home on May 30, 2016. He is predeceased by his wife of 38 years, Marie Orr, who passed away in 2008. Bob grew up in New Jersey until 1943, when his family moved to Santa Maria, California. He attended Santa Maria High School, graduating in 1947.

Bob served in the U.S. Army Ordnance at Fort Knox, Kentucky from 1951-1953 and was discharged from the Reserve in 1959. He enjoyed his time in the service and was honored to serve his country.

After serving Bob enrolled in Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey and graduated in 1962. His professional career was remarkable. He started out as an usher at NBC Television Studios and enjoyed attending the tapings of the shows and meeting all the stars. In 1965 he began working at UPS in their national office in New York which not only took him to Washington D.C., but all over the world. He rose through the ranks elevating to Vice President of Advertising. Among his many accomplishments he wrote a book implementing new strategies between the UPS driver and their clients which became an invaluable tool in customer relations that are still relevant today. One of the most exciting aspects of his job was traveling to our Nation's Capital to testify on Capitol Hill. Bob retired in 1989 after 35 dedicated years.

Bob and Marie resided in both New Jersey and Stuart, Florida, and enjoyed an active lifestyle that included both summer and winter sports. They traveled the world snow skiing, golfing, playing tennis, and sail boating. They maintained a cabin in Highland Lakes, NJ where they enjoyed entertaining family and friends. One of Bob's greatest joys was getting both his and Marie's families together and some of his happiest memories were from that time. Bob enjoyed attending church with Marie and supporting their political affiliations both on a local and national level. Bob’s generosity extended not only to his family and charitable organizations, but to all who were blessed by his gentle nature, kindness, and wisdom.

He is survived by his brother Edward Smith, Lois (Roy) Strong (wife of Brother William, deceased) 7 nephews, 1 niece, and several grandnieces and grandnephews. Services will be held 10AM, Thursday, June 02, 2016 at First Baptist Church of Sweetwater, Longwood, FL. A luncheon will follow for family and friends from 11:30AM – 2:30PM at Village on the Green, 500 Village Place, Longwood FL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Sweetwater (building fund) or the Viscardi Center in NY.