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https://www.flipsnack.com/alcbf/robert-smith-funeral-program/full-view.html Robert Earl Smith was born on March 3, 1943, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was the first child born to the union of Thomas Robert Smith and Inez Armstrong Smith. Robert graduated in 1960 from Southside High School in Ringgold, Louisiana, where his parents were esteemed educators and he excelled as a member of the basketball team. After high school, Robert attended Tennessee State University, where he was a proud member of the Aristocrat of Bands and earned a Bachelor of Administration degree in 1964. Robert and Carolyn Belser celebrated the birth of their first child, Antonio, in Montgomery, Alabama. Four years later, their family grew with the arrival of their second child, Sherrelle. Robert took great pride in the achievements of both his children. Robert began his professional journey at McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis, where he worked for several years before transitioning to a role as purchaser with General Dynamics in California. After retiring from General Dynamics, he embarked on a second career with Amtrak, serving as a porter and customer service agent. Following his time at Amtrak, Robert returned to St. Louis to enjoy retirement. However, unable to sit idle, he took on a managerial role with Parking Management Services, where he worked until his final retirement in 2023. Following in his father's footsteps, Robert was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, exemplifying its fundamental purpose of "Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor." He was also an active alumnus of Tennessee State University, serving on alumni boards, participating in various events, and faithfully attending home games each year. Additionally, Robert was an avid bowler of Happy Time and Senior Traveling League, competing in tournaments nationwide until his passing. Robert touched countless lives with his warmth, generosity, and vibrant personality, always being the life of the party. His impeccable sense of style often featured Tennessee State University and Kappa Alpha Psi paraphernalia. A passionate sports enthusiast, Robert's favorites were football and basketball. He was also a dedicated fan, holding season tickets for both the St. Louis Rams and the St. Louis Battlehawks. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Robert Smith and Inez Armstrong Smith; one grandson, Brandon Hewitt; aunt/second mother, Ethel Armstrong Price; and several aunts and uncles. He leaves to cherish his memory two children, Antonio Smith and Sherrelle Smith Ogletree; one sister, Cynthia Sith Harry; five grandchildren, Anthony Richardson, Austin Ogletree, Jordyn Smith (Darsy); Dallas Ogletree, and Olivia Ogletree; one niece, Briana Harry; one great nephew, Grayson Williams; cousin/brother David Price, Jr. (Joyce); and a host of family and friends.

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Robert Earl Smith

March 3, 1943 - December 25, 2024