Edwin "Turk" "Ed" Gehring

SMITH, Edwin "Ed" "Turk" Gehring Age 94, of Naples, FL, and Marblehead, MA, passed away on October 9, 2025. Born in Portland, ME, and raised in Swampscott, MA, Ed was the beloved son of Marcia and Fred Smith; and the devoted husband of Margaret "Maggie" Smith for 69 wonderful years. Ed graduated from Phillips Academy Andover and Yale University. He served proudly as a naval officer during the Korean conflict, aboard the USS Formoe and USS Lewis in the Pacific. A natural athlete, Ed played hockey, swam, and captained the baseball team at Andover, later continuing hockey at Yale. His love of music was equally strong. He was honored to sing with The Whiffenpoofs of 1953 and later performed for many joyful years with the Paradise Coastmen barbershop chorus in Naples. After his naval service, Ed and Maggie settled in Marblehead to raise their family. He joined his father at Brockway-Smith Co. (BROSCO), eventually serving as president and chairman. Under his thoughtful leadership, the company flourished for decades, remaining a proud family business until its sale in 2023 after 133 years of operation. Ed gave generously of his time and talents to his community. He served as president of Tedesco Country Club and the National Sash and Door Jobbers Association, and as a trustee of Salem Hospital. He and Maggie treasured their years with friends at Royal Poinciana Golf Club, where Ed could often be found enjoying a good round, good music, and good company. Ed was preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Pam Lane; and his sister, Nancy Durkee. He is survived by his loving wife, Maggie; children, Charlie Smith (Jane) and Carol Spillane (Paul); grandchildren, Stephanie Lane, Cortney Cummings, Lydia McMahon, Emily Dainys, Delia Brown, Katie Donahue, and Dan Spillane; and nine great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. A private family Service will be held in Marblehead. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Lilac Care for their loving support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed's memory to the Moorings Park Foundation - Lilac Care, 120 Moorings Park Drive, Naples, FL 34105. www.fullernaples.com

View the online memorial for Edwin "Ed" "Turk" Gehring SMITH