Hugh Blair-Smith

Cherchez la bêtise! - he always used to say. Since I'm still making errors there is no way I will ever forget him.

Hugh was one of the smartest and most consistently cheerful person I ever knew, even in times of stress. I worked beside him for several years, and spent time in his boat. The lessons his wisdom taught me helped manage difficult situations long into my future career.

Dear Hugh, You are missed. You´re not forgotten. Your many gifts of humor, intelligence, wit, sweetness and so much more are remembered. Blessings and joy are deservedly yours. With love! Judith

Miss you, Hugh! Such a lovely, intelligent man. God bless you.

Hugh was a good friend plus he was one the most significant contributors to the Apollo Guidance System Computer design. Hugh also designed and implemented the YUL system without which the Command Module and Lunar Module Flight Software would not have possible. The YUL System, so named because its readiness by Christmas 1960 was necessary, was used to design, compile and manufacture the Apollo flight software. Hugh was one of the bright stars that lit the way to the moon.

I had the joy of sitting next to Hugh at a recent dinner the CCWC treated our board members to. We shared an appetizer and he quietly offered humorous remarks that kept me laughing. I will miss this sweet man!

I was privileged to get to know Hugh as a co-board member of Cape Cod Writers Center where Hugh was devoted to his position of treasurer. We worked together on the cable television show, BOOK AND THE WORLD where Hugh presided as occasional interviewer and, sometimes, camera man. But it was through our mutual love of the intersection of Science Fiction, Philosophy, and Religion that I developed a true affection for Hugh. Our conversations were always a wonderful surprise that I so looked forward to. What an amazing man. I am deeply sorry for your family's loss.

With sincere condolences,
Kathy Aspden, Vice President of Cape Cod Writers Center

I've included two pictures from Hugh's last television interview filmed Spring 2024.

One of my most treasured memories will always be of him performing original verses Gilbert and Sullivan style at the surprise 90th birthday party for my late husband, Andre. Hugh enriched our world and the world at large, and all now seems much emptier. My heart and my empathy go out to Vicki and her family.

God bless this incredible man for his contributions to our space exploration. It´s people like him that you don´t know what they do until your read their incredible history. Thank you

I never met Hugh Blair-Smith, but spent time dog sledding with Caroline Blair-Smith. She is am amazing woman who has the deepest respect for the earth and the creatures of the earth, sea and sky.
After reading her father´s obituary, I have a bit of an understanding from whence she came. Deepest sympathy to Caroline and all the members of Hugh Blair-Smith´s family. May your memories be of comfort to you in the time ahead.