Robert Smead

Robert N. Smead, a devoted husband, loving father, faithful servant, and dedicated scholar, passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on October 1, 1954, in Tooele, Utah, Robert was the eldest of four children born to Robert S. Smead and Norma (Crowther) Smead. His early years were spent in Concord, California, followed by time in Annandale, Virginia, and later in the San Jose area, where he graduated from Saratoga High School in 1972.

Robert began his studies at Brigham Young University before serving a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints in the Mexico City Mission from 1973 to 1975. Upon his return, he resumed his education at BYU. He married Gloria Olga Magadan-his beloved companion-in 1976. Gloria was born in Aguascalientes, Mexico, and raised in the Mormon Colonies. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and education, raising four children. He earned a BA in Spanish in 1981 and an MA in Spanish Language in 1983, both from BYU. He went on to pursue doctoral studies in Ibero-Romance Philology and Linguistics at the University of Texas at Austin, earning his PhD in 1988.

Robert's academic career reflected his passion for the Spanish language and its rich cultural heritage. He taught at the University of Arizona from 1988 to 1995, achieving the rank of Assistant Professor. He later returned to BYU as a visiting professor and eventually held the rank of Associate Professor of Spanish Linguistics. His research focused on the Spanish mood system, language contact and bilingualism, and the use of Spanish in the United States.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Gloria; his daughter, Jessica (Nathan) Blackham; and his sons, Justin (Monica) Smead, Richard (Austin) Smead, and Jon (Cinthya) Smead. He is the beloved grandfather to 12 grandchildren. His life was enriched by extended family, dear friends, and many former students and colleagues who were touched by his kindness, intellect, and quiet strength.

A lifelong member of the Church, Robert served in many callings but particularly loved teaching. He was known for his unwavering testimony and steady devotion to faith and family.

In his free time, Robert enjoyed reading, relaxing with loved ones, playing basketball, watching sports, and strumming the guitar-simple pleasures that reflected his gentle spirit.

A viewing will be held on Thursday evening, October 16, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Nelson Family Mortuary (4780 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84604).

A funeral service honoring his life will be held Friday morning, October 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Nelson Family Mortuary. A viewing will precede the service at 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the same location. Interment will follow at Eastlawn Memorial Cemetery.

Robert's life was one of service, love, and learning. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, scholarship, and quiet compassion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.