Bernard Smith

Bernard Smith, age 94, of Ocean Township, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026 in Largo, Florida. Born May 22, 1931, he lived a life defined by courage, intellect, service, and faith.

A graduate of the 1948 Class of Asbury Park High School, Bernard served honorably in the United States Navy and was the first African American to graduate from the Navy’s School of Electrical Engineering. He earned a B.S. in Physics from Monmouth College and M.S. degrees in Physics and Electrical Engineering from Fairleigh Dickinson University, graduating cum laude.

Bernard dedicated more than 40 years as a scientist and engineer with the U.S. Army at Fort Monmouth, NJ. His work resulted in over 20 U.S. patents, including a key contribution to the PATRIOT Missile System that significantly improved reliability of U.S. defense technology.

He married Lynette Anita Maxwell Smith in June 1967. An accomplished golfer, he competed on the United Golfers Association (UGA) tour.

He was preceded in death by his wife Lynette; his parents, Abram and Margaret Smith; and siblings.

He is survived by his daughters, Darlene Smith Powell (Robert) and Lori Smith Gabriel (Yves); his grandchildren, Alexander Bernard Gabriel, Lauren Anita Marie Gabriel, Selene Powell, Jonathan Powell, and Courtney Powell; and many loving family members and friends.

Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, Visitation at 10 a.m., Services at 11 a.m. - Ocean Funeral Home, 2130 NJ-35, Ocean Township, NJ 07712. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either the Semper Fi & America’s Fund or the Parkinson’s Foundation.