Shrewsbury/North Grafton – Robert M. “Bob” Smith, 91, passed away peacefully Sept. 16, 2019.
He leaves his wife of 67 years, Janice F. (Army) Smith; his three sons, Richard M. Smith and his wife Jerri, Ronald M. Smith and his wife Betsy, and Robert H. Smith and his wife Nanette; and his grandchildren, Christopher, Adam, Jeffrey, Rebecca and Andrew, along with several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Hilary H. Smith; his brother, Earle Smith; sister Virginia Bigelow; and niece Carol.
Bob was born Dec. 8, 1927 in Worcester, son of the late Agnes (Hunter) and Earl Smith. He grew up in North Grafton and spent more than 60 years of his life at his home on East Street. Bob graduated from Grafton High School in 1945 and attended Clark University in Worcester.
Bob worked for several years in insurance sales, but also owned Whiterell’s Coffee Shop where he worked as a boy, and filled in as a part-time mail carrier as well.
He volunteered with Grafton Little League, was a devoted member of All Saints Episcopal Church and eventually The First Congregational Church in Shrewsbury where he served as a church sexton. He always loved a round of golf with friends and spent time at the Greendale Men’s Club where he was a member. Above all else, Bob’s greatest treasure was time with the family he so loved.
All are welcome to gather with Bob’s family Friday, Sept. 20, at 11 a.m., at The First Congregational Church, 19 Church Rd., Shrewsbury, followed by burial at Pine Grove Cemetery in North Grafton. There are no calling hours.
In memory of Bob, please send memorial donations to The First Congregational Church Scholarship Fund, 19 Church Rd., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
Bob’s family would especially like to thank the professional and dedicated staff at Summit Healthcare and Knollwood Nursing Center.
A Book of Memories to share a favorite story or message of sympathy with Bob’s family is available online at www.RoneyFuneralHome.com.
