Elder Robert Smith

Elder Robert L. Smith's golden heart slipped into eternal rest as he peacefully slept on Thursday, January 23rd, 2026, at Hospice of the Comforter, at the age of 79.

He was born in Moultrie, Georgia, to Marion Williams and Irene Johnson, and was one of six children blessed to their family.

At the age of 10, his family relocated to Riviera Beach, Florida, where he received his formal education and began shaping the foundation of the man he would become. During the Vietnam Era conflict, Reverend Smith served honorably in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968 as a Conscientious Objector - standing firm in his faith while still answering the call to serve his country with integrity and courage.

At just 17 years old, he embarked on his ministerial journey, embracing a calling that would define the next six decades of his life. For more than 60 years, Reverend Smith remained a devoted and Trusted Steward of Faith, serving faithfully as Pastor, Interim Pastor, Mentor, and Teacher. His ministry became a living testament to his unwavering commitment to God, to his community, and to the countless souls he guided, uplifted, and inspired while serving as a member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Altamonte.

In his latter years, he continued to serve faithfully at Hospice of the Comforter in Altamonte and in the Incarceration Ministry, where his compassion and dedication earned him numerous honors and heartfelt recognition. Yet among all his works, one of his greatest joys was the Health and Homebound Ministry - a calling that allowed him to pour tenderness, presence, and comfort into the lives of those who needed it most.

He also served with dignity and quiet strength as an attendant at Hayes Brothers Funeral Home, offering families solace during their most difficult moments.

He will forever be remembered for his unwavering servitude, his gentle spirit, and the countless ways he uplifted his community.

Reverend Smith was blessed to share 50 extraordinary years of marriage with the "APPLE OF HIS EYE," Wyvonne DeCarlo - a union marked by devotion, partnership, and a love that stood as a shining example to all who witnessed it.

Carrying his legacy forward, when tomorrow starts without him, are his wife: Wyvonne Smith; his three children: Rosalind Renee, Antjuann Robert, and Qiana Wyvonne (Smith); his three grandchildren: Tristan Antjuann, Jorja Leigh, and Brycen Robert; his brothers John and Keith (Johnson); his sister Joyce (Johnson); along with a host of nieces and nephews, sorrowing friends, extended family, and his beloved church families. Each one holds a piece of his heart and will continue to honor his memory through the lives he touched so deeply.