Robert Smith

Smith, Robert A., 76, of Hawthorne St., died July 30, 2009 at Rhode Island Hospital. Born in and a lifelong resident of North Providence, he was a son of the late Edward and Ivy (Chew) Smith. He was predeceased by his brothers, Jack and Harold Smith.

Robert was employed by the Johnston Public Schools, mainly as an English teacher, from 1954 until his retirement in 1989. However, he never really left. He continued his involvement in the school as an Athletic Administrator until his death. Bob enjoyed working with young people. He loved teaching and became a "fixture" at Johnston High School. He never missed an athletic event, and was present at every important activity at the school. He was a former class advisor, student council advisor, and participated in many school functions throughout the years. As a class advisor, Mr. Smith was the originator of Homecoming Floats, the cherished homecoming tradition still embraced today, exemplifying school spirit and sportsmanship. First and foremost, he was an educator and a friend to all of his students. As Master of Ceremonies, who will never forget him at Pep Rallies, Honors Night and graduation, directing and conducting all of the festivities? This year, unfortunately, was the first time in the history of the school that he missed a graduation exercise, and that was because of his illness. He had a great sense of humor and got along well with all of his fellow teachers and co-workers. He was an outstanding teacher, administrator, coach and friend.

Bob's real love was being involved in sports. He had an impressive career from 1960 to 1989 coaching basketball and baseball and received many accolades for all of his hard work and dedication. He was very proud of the fact that his teams won many State championships, divisional championships and sportsmanship awards. He was inducted into the RI Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame, the RI Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, and the RI Babe Ruth Hall of Fame. In addition, he was the former director of the Johnston Recreation Department's summer camp program and assisted in the summer hockey program at Providence College for many years. The list never ends. He was also involved with the Providence Recreation Department at one time, and his Alma Mater was North Providence High School where he was honored and inducted into he North Providence High School Hall of Fame. In June 2009, he received an award from the Rhode Island Interscholastic Athletic Administration Association for recognition of outstanding service in athletic administration.

"Smitty" as he was affectionately known by his friends and co-workers, had a profound effect on all those who knew him or were associated with him. He was dedicated, not only to his students, but to all of the young people who were fortunate enough to have been coached by him throughout the years. His love for the school, his association with all of his co-workers, his love for his profession, the ability to communicate with young people and his sense of fair play is something that will remain with the school for many years to come. During the fifties, he served in the US Army stationed in Germany and had pride in the fact that he served his country. "Smitty" devoted his life to Johnston High School, its administration and its faculty, and anything connected to it. He won't be forgotten by the thousands of students and athletes that have passed through its halls. Lastly, we can't forget he was a die-hard NY Yankee fan. He was a fine example of what Johnston High represents. As a matter of fact, he was Johnston High.

He leaves his sisters-in-law, Anne and Betty Smith, and many caring nieces and nephews, a step-brother and four step-sisters.

Calling hours will be held Tuesday 4-8 pm in the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence. Services and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to JHS Robert A. Smith Memorial scholarship Fund, 345 Cherry Hill Rd., Johnston, RI, 02919.