Robert Clifton Smith Jr.

Born in Delaware, Robert grew into a man defined by both principle and personality. He married his high school sweetheart, Paula Records, in March 1979—a love story that stood the test of time and gracefully weathered every twist and turn life brought their way.

After graduating from Glasgow High School, Robert proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years, with assignments that included the Pentagon, Germany, England, and STRATCOM at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. He earned a bachelor's degree in Information Technology and, following his military retirement, continued his defense career with Northrop Grumman. Eventually, he traded Nebraska's "Good Life" for the sunshine of Florida, where he became known as "Smilin' Smitty," first as a trusted handyman and later partnered in real estate with his oldest daughter to form The Smith Team. Throughout every chapter of his life, he carried the same dedication, discipline, and integrity that defined his military service—whether serving as a Master Sergeant, mentor, coach, handyman, realtor, or simply a trusted friend.

Robert was meticulous and principled, yet spontaneous and adventurous—a rare and remarkable combination. He was sharp-witted, sarcastic, kindhearted, a dreamer, a risk-taker, and a man with a truly unforgettable smile. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel like old friends. Whether sharing a story, lending a hand, or striking up a conversation with someone he had just met, Robert left people better than he found them. He embraced life fully. He and Paula traveled to all 50 states together and loved the open road. He especially enjoyed the drive to Key West in his beloved Honda S2000 with Jimmy Buffett playing in the background or relaxing on the water in his boat appropriately named “Finally.” He had a passion for Philadelphia Eagles football, Nebraska Cornhuskers football, a Guinness or cold Michelob Ultra, golf, boating, fishing, and, above all, spending time with family and friends.

Robert loved stories—both telling them and living them. Favorite films such as Monty Python and the Holy Grail, It's a Wonderful Life (every Christmas), and Big Fish reflected his humor, optimism, and spirit. As Big Fish suggests, a life is measured not only by its years but by the wonder, laughter, and impact it leaves behind. Robert's stories will be told for generations.

His greatest pride and joy was his family, whom he spoke of often to anyone that would listen and with immense pride. He is lovingly survived by his wife of over 47 years, Paula (Records) Smith; his daughters, Katie Smith Sylvia (Ben) and Ashley Smith (Michael Tangeman); his cherished grandchildren, Willow and Eastman Sylvia, who knew him simply as the best Pop Pop ever. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends that were an important part of his life. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Smith Sr. and Kay Elizabeth Burgess.

His family also honors the long and difficult journey he faced with Alzheimer's disease and express heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Arden Courts Fort Myers.

The following reflection captures the heartbreak of loving someone through that journey:

"They say Alzheimer's is a slow goodbye. But it feels more like a thousand tiny goodbyes that cut deeper each time. I grieve the you that used to be, even while loving the you that's still here. It's the hardest balancing act my heart has ever done."

Through it all, Robert remained true to himself. He often said, "It is what it is," and frequently claimed to be the luckiest man on earth. Looking back on a life filled with adventure, purpose, friendship, and love, perhaps he was. As the saying by Joe E. Lewis, goes, "We only get one life, but if you live it right, once is enough." Robert lived it right.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert’s honor can be made to a favorite veterans’ organization or to Lorenzo’s House (lorenzoshouse.org), which supports families impacted by early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

He was, in every sense, the Big Fish—and the stories he leaves behind will continue to ripple outward, touching lives for generations to come.

A Memorial Gathering will be held from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Friday, December 4, 2026 at Coral Ridge Funeral Home, 950 Chiquita Boulevard S., Cape Coral, FL. A Memorial Service will be celebrated 3:00 PM where the United States Air Force will present Military Honors. Robert will placed at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA at a later date.