Steven Smith

Steven Andrew Smith passed away unexpectedly on March 7, 2025 at the age of 59. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, and a source of light and laughter to all who knew him.

Born in Boston, MA on October 8, 1965, Steve was the son of Sandy and Barry Smith. He grew up in Wellesley Hills and graduated from The University of Massachusetts in 1990 with a BA in Arboriculture.

Upon graduation, Steven put thoughts about a career on hold to pursue his passion for rock climbing. He became an accomplished climber, culminating in his ascent of the storied Nose route on El Capitan in 1993. Living out of a VW camper, he traveled the country and climbed at some of the sport's most fabled locales.

While Steven continued to climb the rest of his life, he eventually dropped his nomadic lifestyle to pursue a career, and in 2001 graduated from Widener University in Chester, PA with a masters degree in Physical Therapy. Never a fan of cold weather, he moved to Tucson, AZ to begin his new calling, and it was soon thereafter that he met his wife Jenn. They were married in 2003, and Steve became an instant father figure to Jenn's four children - Sarah, Austin, Maddy and Jack. Their son Finn was born the following year.

Those who knew Steven describe him as an outgoing introvert. He loved people but hated large gatherings and crowds. People were drawn to his warmth, humor, generosity and charm - traits that led to lifelong friendships, brought joy to his family and fueled his success as a physical therapist. He had a beautiful smile. His laugh, which was often punctuated by a loud snort, was contagious. He was at his best one-on-one and in small groups. But if the gathering got too big or loud, he would utter his signature phrase "I'm out" and retreat to the solace of quieter surroundings.

Steven is survived by his wife Jennifer Smith and his son Finn Smith; his stepchildren Sarah Alfiero (husband David), Madeleine FitzGerald (partner John Taylor) and Jack FitzGerald; his grandchildren Selah Taylor, Mason Taylor, Jackson Alfiero and Charlotte Alfiero; his sisters Betsy Tilton (husband Dan) and Sharon Caruso (husband Matt); and his nieces and nephews Zach Dix, Samantha Tilton, Chris Tilton and Daniela Caruso. He is predeceased by his stepson Austin FitzGerald and his nephew Matthew Tilton.

Steven was loved and cherished and will be greatly missed. He will be remembered with fondness and love, and will always be with us in our hearts and minds.