Obituary of Robert W. Smith

It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the sudden unexpected passing of Robert W. Smith of East Greenbush, on November 5, 2022, at the age of 85.  Born in Rensselaer on April 7, 1937, he was the son of George A. Smith, Sr. and Margaret Brusie-Smith.

Robert was a graduate of Van Rensselaer High School, class of 1956, attended SUNY Albany and was a proud veteran of the United States Army.  He was a member of the American Legion and past member of the Troy Elks.  Retired from the State University Construction Fund-Financial Analyst, Rob, spent many years vacationing in Maine enjoying the ocean.  An avid reader, reading as many as 4 to 5 books a week, he also loved to challenge his wife to many games of Cribbage.  Another passion was playing pinochle and poker, where it has been rumored that money had changed hands. Rob leaves behind a brokenhearted family, may his soul rest in peace. 

Rob is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Barbara E. McDonald-Smith. He is also survived by his much-loved daughter, Pamela A. Smith-Chester and much-loved son (in-law) William B. Chester. As well as, three grandchildren, who are adored by their grandfather, Sean P. Chester (Kimberly), Madison M. Mann (Sam) and Taylor A. Van Orden (Michael).  Three precious great grandchildren, Renley Mann, Axton Chester, and “Jelly Bean” Van Orden, all are loved and are blessings to our family.  His sister, Sylvia Smith-Coleman, of Davenport, FL, also mourns the passing of her twin brother, Bobby.  Two brothers-in-law, Richard A. McDonald (Donna) and James J. McDonald, Sr. (Linda) and many nieces and nephews survive Robert, as well.

 Robert was predeceased by his parents and seven siblings including Nathan Smith (Nellie), Irene Ross (Al), George A. Smith, Jr., Mary Alice Endres (Jim), Edna Harrington (Shep), Hank Smith (Alice) and John Smith (Joan).

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday November 29, 2022 in the W.J Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer at 3:30pm.  Relatives and friends are invited and may call prior to the service from 2:00-3:30pm.  All are welcome to attend. Burial in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Foundation by mail, JDRF 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor New York, NY 10281, https://www.jdrf.org/donate/ or by phone at 800-533-CURE (2873), and/or Lupus Research Alliance, at https://give.lupusresearch.org/give/123231/#!/donation/checkout