To the family of Officer Roger Smith, the Parrish family offers our sincere condolences.  My boys’, now young men, have fond memories of Roger thru Knightdale Fire Department.  Their paths crossed quite often. They commented on how jovial he was.
His passing has left sadness in the hearts of many. His contribution was far reaching.  May your fond memories help you in your time of sorrows. Our thoughts are with you. Healing ❤️‍🩹 Prayers.🙏🏻
Russ & Phillip Parrish
Harold & Denise Parrish

Roger was easy to fall in love with.  Soft spoken man with a kind heart and gentle smile.  Mischievous at times and very loving. God Bless.

So sorry for your loss. He was the epitome of the word Protector and may you rally together as a family to help each other at this time.
Sincerely, 
The Joyners of Wake Forest

Roger and I were partners and work together for several years at main campus and Wakeman North. He was a respected police officer and man. We always made a tough job fun for each other by instilling laughter  and compassion.  Roger was a gentle giant.. I am so sad that his life ended this way. But he served his community with honor and heroism. He will always be remembered.
God bless his family ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹

I have been to the Wakemed Garner Healthplex many times for various reasons. Most recently my wife and I had an appointment there for my baby daughter. I rememeber Roger standing guard in the lobby as we waited to be called. I want to express my utmost appreciation for his service. He is undoubtedly a hero. He answered the call and defended the defenseless. May God bless his memory and may God bless his family in this terrible hour. "There is no greater love than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13)

Roger and I were good friends and shared many happy memories together. I admired his dedication and love for his family and feel blessed and honored to have known him. 
My sincerest condolences and prayers for his family.

My WakeMed Family 💔. 
You always watched over us.
Cynthia Rodriguez ⚘️

Dear Family, please accept my heartfelt condolences and sincere prayers for your loss. Mr. Smith was a good man that has a warm and loving spirit that I will always remember. The quote, "To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord." Please know he is at peace and safe now~

Roger and I met 13 years ago and I found out very quickly that he loves Chick-fil-A and Cabela's. The majority of our dates ended up at Chick-fil-A and Cabela's. I could never get him out of there. I'd fall asleep waiting for him.
We  became good friends and then ended up working at the same hospital. He would like to  harass me all the time for being a Yankee and for liking the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Buffalo Sabres as  I am Canadian and half American. I'd ask him how long it takes to become Southern and he told me that I needed to like the Carolina Hurricanes before I could become southern.😏

Roger ended up saving my life in 2019 and I am eternally grateful. I know he loved hunting and fishing and I was going to take him to my friends 500 acre in Lockport New York this month to go hunting. I had told him about a 30 inch rainbow trout that I caught in a creek on my friends farm When he heard that he wanted to go fishing as well.  Roger would always make me laugh and give me a hard time but I would give it right back to him. 
Anytime we went anywhere he was always putting ducks that looked like police officers and sticking them on other people's jeeps. I am still trying to figure out the reason behind this, but he told me it was a Southern thing and I didn't know whether to believe him or not because he was always joking.
There's a reason God took him home, and we may never know the reason why but we know that he is walking the streets of gold with his father, most likely fishing at a beautiful lake in heaven. 
This world just lost a wonderful man that protected so many people and saved lives that we may never know about.
 My heart breaks for his family and I know that God will be watching over his mom and all of his family members. There's a special place in heaven for Roger so when you get to heaven, just ask God where the Cabela's is and most likely you'll find Roger there eating Chick-fil-A .
Roger, you will be extremely missed. Love Diane

So incredibly sorry to Roger's family for their loss. The short time I worked along side Roger at Garner was a privilege. He immediately made you feel at ease and incredibly safe. My thoughts are with you at this very difficult time. Thank you Roger for your years of service, dedication and sacrifice.  You are valued and will be truly missed.

Roger was the consummate protector, a gentle giant with a heart of gold. His beautiful blue eyes could brighten any room! His love and dedication to his family was immeasurable, as was his commitment to his community, colleagues and friends. Gone too soon, but will be remembered and revered. 

My condolences to the Smith family and prayers for swift healing!

Roger was a very caring man.  He would always greet us with a warm smile and hello every day we entered the building. We always felt safe with him around.  Roger will truly be missed.  My sincere condolences to his children, grandchildren, and other loved ones.

SaVonda

I would like to send my most sincere condolences to Rogers family and friends.  I knew Roger on and off from working at WakeMed and I would see him in passing usually in the morning when I would go to the Health Park on Sunnybrook to take up my post.  If Roger was working he would always make a point to stop and see how I was doing.  I have missed those morning meetings since I do not work for the department anymore.  Roger was and always will be what I consider a friend.  See you on the other side brother.

Roger was a great man. I was always impressed by the way he spoke to everyone with the same respect and kindness, whether it was a coworker, a patient, or a family member. 
He was a light in the dark, a bit of sunshine in the rain. 
Thank you, sir, for allowing us to be part of your life and for leaving behind the legacy of amazing human being. 
You will be deeply missed.

Roger and I were friends in high school, where he was already a first responder and had the respect of everyone for his good nature and positive attitude.   After school we lost touch, but occasionally we'd run into each other when I was visiting the hospital.  It was always nice to be reminded that Roger's steady demeanor and presence endured, holding up against time and the struggles we all face.  Of course it did!  

As we attempt to make sense of this world, one certainty is Roger Smith made it a much better place for those he knew and for anyone fortunate enough to have an encounter with him, to speak with him, or just be on the receiving end of his hello.  It was his natural gift.

My condolences to his family and those closest to him.  May you all find comfort knowing Roger was a man of peace, trust, integrity, and valor, who cared deeply for everyone.

35 years we knew each other.  I always knew he was too good for this world. All of the outpouring for him shows how may people’s lives he touched. I’m so grateful he came to see me in Greenville a couple of years ago since I was unable to drive that day. I’ll cherish that memory forever. I pray the family finds some peace in time esp his Mom and the girls. I’m also grateful he didn’t suffer. He was always a hero. I will def miss our reminiscing about the old days in Raleigh/Greenville and our funny stories. We always picked up right where we left off. You were an exceptional man, person, Officer, Fireman, Dad and Grampa. I’m so proud to have been in your life. Please rest now Roger Dodger. Over and out. EOW 11/8/25 💙💔🖤👮🏼‍♂️👨🏻‍🚒🚔🚨

The Wake County Sheriff's Office Chaplain Support Services extend our sincere condolences in the passing of Officer Smith.  You are in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your sacrifice, commitment, and many years of service.

My heart is heavy today as I try to find the words to honor someone who meant so much to me. You weren’t just a friend, you were a protector, a safe place and one of the most precious souls I’ve ever known. 
 Life feels emptier without your laughter, our conversations,  and the way you always stalked me as I walked down the halls of WMG. I always knew you would appear somewhere along the way. 🤗
I will carry you in my heart forever and promise to keep living in a way that will make you proud. 
Rest easy my dear friend. 
You will never be forgotten! 
Lil’ Bit

Roger was a phenomenal person and officer.  I work the WakeMed Cary Emergency Registration department,  I’ve gotten to know Roger fairly well over the last six months when he picked up overtime for our hospital. We would keep each other company during the nights on the weekends.  He was a wonderful person and would do anything for you if you needed him to.  I will miss him.  I will remember him.  May he be in God’s arms.  Please remember as you look at your children that he is in them.  God bless each of you.

So very sorry for this immense loss! He spoke often of how much his mom, daughter and granddaughter meant to him. He died as he lived, a hero. Dee B

On behalf of Atrium Health Special Police and Public Safety, we extend our deepest condolences to your family. Roger's dedication and courage exemplify the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. His commitment to protecting others will never be forgotten.
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Roger, you will be missed! Thank you for coming into our family when we needed you the most. There are not enough words to express how much you meant to so many people. 

To the entire Smith Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you throughout this difficult time.

While I did not know Officer Smith, I have heard so many wonderful things about him since he walked through the gates of heaven. I do know someone who knew Roger personally & I come from a 1st Responder & military heavy family. The moment I heard the words "Officer Down", I didn't leave from infront of my TV. And I started praying. He sacrificed his life to save others, something it sounds like Roger was always ready to do, but hoped would never happen. His heroism did save lives, there are people that are alive today because Roger is not. Roger, your service & dedication is beyond words. 

To the Smith family. We're so sorry for the loss of your love one. We never have enough time with the ones we love. I pray that you feel his presence & love still with you. And also feel the love & prayers of so many in the community. To Officer Smith's brothers & sisters in blue... don't remember him the way he was that last day if you responded. Remember his laugh & smile & shared wisdom. Your friendship will live on in his memory. He will be looking down on you all & he'll still have your six, in a much different way now. 

Many prayers, 
Connie & Ruthie Pruitt

Sending love and hugs to all the family. 💙 to all the work family as well

Roger was a very nice officer. Never seen him with a bad attitude. Rest in Peace Roger.

During this time of Bereavement, I would like to send my sincere  
condolences the Family and Friends. My prayers are with you.

We both knew each other first personally and then professionally. We laughed and cut up together at Michael and Dana’s house at the parties! Will always remember his wonderful smile and good hugs! You were such a gentle giant and you will be missed. See you in heaven my friend!!

To Roger’s family:  I knew Roger when he was a police officer in Knightdale.   Anytime I ever saw Roger, he was nothing but the epitome of kindness.  I pray for each of you as you navigate his loss.  I wish I was going to be in town to pay my respects.

My Prayers and Condolences to the family of Police Officer Roger L. Smith. In my early days as a mental health tech in the ED Officer Smith was there to help out whenever needed. Officer Smith was very supportive of everyone that he worked with. Again my Prayers and Condolences to the family. E.O.W. NOVEMBER 8TH 2025

I would like to send my deepest condolences to the family of  Roger Smith .  I had the privilege to work with Roger from day one of his arrival to the WakeMed Garner ED.  His impact was immediate and all of us instantly felt his presence.   The sense of safety when Roger worked was felt by the entire Garner WakeMed team.  We will miss his  friendship, his kindness and knowing  he always had our  backs.

I'm deeply humbled by the selflessness and compassion of my WakeMed Garner family. Working with Roger was a profound privilege, as he embodied the very essence of kindness, empathy, and generosity. His smile was a ray of sunshine that brightened even the darkest days, and his ability to uplift and inspire others was a rare and precious gift. Roger's unwavering commitment to supporting and protecting his colleagues is a beacon of hope in the face of adversity, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all. His courage and resilience in the face of violence is a powerful reminder of his unwavering dedication to his community, job, people, friends, and family. My heart goes out to Roger's family, as he will missed daily! ❤️

My heart is broken along with yours. Roger and I met through our love for the Canes. He would text me to save seats for him, his daughter and granddaughter at Watch Parties.  Just last week, Roger and I were laughing,  hugging and cheering.  Kyra drew me a picture and Roger won a team signed stick.  He was such an amazing man whom I was proud to call my friend 🧡

Sending my thoughts and prayers to the family.  Roger was such a very nice person always spoke when I came into work, made time to make a joke or two and just overall made sure we were ok. 

Thank you for your time and your presence you will truly be missed!

I was working on the day Police Officer R. Smith was taken from this world. When I learned who the victim was it felt like everything stopped. I didn't know Officer Smith on a more personal note, but I had training with him and classes at the time I worked at WakeMed. He was a good man, and a dedicated person not only to his art but to his family. I hope his family is well, and Roger's memory continues to live through us Public Safety Officers and Police Officer's over throughout the country. You will be missed and I hope you rest easy knowing you did a great job. Thank you for your service. 

  - Public Safety Officer Riley A. Hunt Unit #212

My husband and I knew Roger for well over 20 years as our former neighbor in Knightdale and through the church we attended.  We are so sad to hear about Roger's passing.  Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.

Roger's passing has been such a great loss. Not only was he a great Police Officer but he was an overall great human being. I worked with him and got to know him on a personal level, and listening to him talk about the love he had for his family, loved ones, and even the passion for his job makes his passing all the more painful. Rest In Peace Roger, and to his family I send my condolences and prayers. Just know that Roger dedicated his life to protecting, serving, and helping others and he will be missed greatly.

Officer Smith kept us safe every day at WakeMed. It was a blessing to work with him as part of the Garner nursing staff years ago. My deepest sadness and heartfelt condolences are extended to his family. Mr Smith is a hero, and we are so grateful for the protection he provided us. His loss is immeasurable, his bravery everlasting.

The good old days at knightdale PD. Roger behind the drivers side door. Rest easy brother. We got it from here.

Roger was a friend and a brother in the public safety community. We shared many meals together and even did a little hunting together. Even as time and life got in the way of catching up, I could always pick back up where we left off as if we just had lunch the day before.  He is the definition of a true friend and will be greatly missed.

Walking through the doors at Wake Med Garner, I'd always look to the left hoping to see Roger's face. I told him more than once he was my favorite.
The way he handled things, the way he could take a situation that seemed completely out of control and just  bring everyone to understanding and calm. I learned so much from watching him. How he talked to families, how he connected with patients. He made the  impossible  look easy. He made all of us feel safe.
My heart goes out to his family and everyone who loved him. I pray and hope they feel surrounded by support and love during this impossible time.

Please accept my most sincere condolences… I worked with Roger at wake med garner for many years.  He was a cherished member of the team.  Roger always instilled a sense of calm and a feeling of safety knowing he was there to look out for us.  He will be greatly missed.

Roger has been a very close friend to Michael and I as well as our neighbor for 23 years. He was a brother to us that we loved dearly! He loved to cut up with Michael and tell jokes to each other. It was so funny watching them two acting up like they did.  
He always had our back and we always had his and whenever he needed us we were there for him. He will be greatly missed! This isn’t goodbye, this is until we see you again!   We love you Roger!

Roger was the first friend I made when I first moved to North Carolina in 2017.  He was the kindest person I had ever met.  He would always remember to reach out to me at every holiday and birthday.  He would text out of the blue just to check up on me.  He helped me through trying times. 

Rest well my friend,
Janice

It was my pleasure to work with Roger for several years at Wakemed. Roger will be missed so much. A gentle and kind man gone too soon. There is overwhelming sadness in our hearts, as we have lost a member of our WakeMed family. Love, Cheryl S.

I extend my deepest sympathies to Roger’s family, friends, and colleagues. He was an officer in Knightdale when I served on the Council.  He was a valued colleague and friend.  

Roger served each day with a commitment to public safety, putting himself in danger to protect us.

Roger was NASCAR’s number one fan!!

Your friend ,
Sarai Byrd

Roger always had the best time with our friends on Harkers Island. 

Your friend,
Sarai Byrd

Roger and the apple of his eye. One of my favorite pictures that he sent me. 

Your friend,
Sarai Byrd

OBITUARY

Roger Lee Smith

June 4, 1966 – November 8, 2025

Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park

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