Robert Jack Smith

Rev. Robert Jack Smith went to be with our Lord in heaven on August 28th, 2026, at the age of 91. He was born in San Diego, California, on April 2nd, 1935, to Clyde and Livia Smith. He is survived by his wife Loretta, children Kip, Kay, and Gina, and his grandson Christian.

Robert met his wife on their first day of college and they recently celebrated 70 years of marriage together. He earned a master's degree in theology. Together with his wife he served as a minister for the Church of God. He led from the pulpit with scripture and prayer. She directed the choir and played the piano. On occasion he would join her for a duet. He could sing like an angel. They devoted their lives to serving the lord and helping those who are less fortunate.

He was the handiest of men having built a 3-bedroom self-sustainable home from the ground up with only the help of his wife. Later he owned and maintained a 53-trailer mobile home park. He could build or repair anything.

He instilled that same confidence of character in his children, a sense that they could do or achieve anything. As a parent he rarely missed a track meet or a band concert. His support was ever present. He was strong but soft, being each at the right moment. High expectations with correction and encouragement along the way. He will be dearly missed.

His family will be forever grateful to those who provided kindness and loving care during his illness.

The Gift to Sing by James Weldon Johnson

Sometimes the mist overhangs my path,

And blackening clouds about me cling;

But, oh, I have a magic way

To turn the gloom to cheerful day–

I softly sing.

And if the way grows darker still,

Shadowed by Sorrow’s somber wing,

With glad defiance in my throat,

I pierce the darkness with a note,

And sing, and sing.

I brood not over the broken past,

Nor dread whatever time may bring;

No nights are dark, no days are long,

While in my heart there swells a song,

And I can sing.