Robert Earl Smith Jr.

Robert Earl Smith Jr., affectionately known as Earl or "E3" to his friends and family, lived a life that was as vibrant and dynamic as the art he so passionately created. Born on December 30, 1988, in Middletown, NY, Earl's journey was one marked by an effervescent creativity and an unwavering dedication to his craft. On September 18, 2025, in Troy, NY, Earl's journey on this earth came to a close, but the legacy he leaves behind is indelible.
Earl was the beloved son of Robert Earl Smith Sr. (Florence) and Lori Crawn, and his life was further enriched by the love and camaraderie of his children: Valerie, Ava, and Evander. His siblings, Trent (Chloe), Devown, Ali, Zach, Elejah, Jazmin, Imani, Timothy, and Arianna, alongside paternal uncles Jimmy and Miles, and a whole host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins on both sides, added to the tapestry of his life. Earl's extended family at Jay Allen Barbershop and Bricks Barbershop were not just colleagues but brothers and sisters in arms, united by the craft and community they shared.
Educated in the art of cosmetology, Earl was a master barber and cosmetologist whose skilled hands and creative vision transformed not only hair but also lives. His work was not just about aesthetics; it was about making people feel seen, valued, and heard. Earl's artistry extended beyond the barber chair. He enjoyed poetry and graphic design, and his talents as an artist were nothing short of amazing. His works, imbued with passion and intelligence, were a testament to his thoughtful nature.
Earl was a man who approached life with a heart full of passion. He saw beauty in the everyday and had the unique ability to translate that beauty into his work and interactions. His intelligence was evident not just in his art but also in the way he navigated life, always seeking to learn, grow, and impart wisdom to those around him. Thoughtful in his actions and words, he made a profound impact on everyone he met.
As we celebrate Earl's life, we remember him as a beacon of inspiration. He lived by the words of the great poet, Maya Angelou, who said, "Try to be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." Earl indeed was that rainbow, bringing color and hope to many. His legacy is one of inspiration, urging us to live with purpose, to create with passion, and to be the rainbow in the lives of those we touch.
While we mourn the loss of such a remarkable soul, we also rejoice in the knowledge that Earl's spirit continues to resonate within us. His artistic legacy, his love for his family, and his deep-rooted kindness are the brushstrokes he has left on the canvas of our lives. Earl's story is not one of an end but a continuing narrative of love, art, and transformation that will be told for generations to come. Let us honor his memory by living with the same fervor and intentionality that he did every single day. Rest in power, Earl, and thank you for the beauty and inspiration you've given us all.
Visitation will be from 1 to 3 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home, 130 Highland Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940. Cremation will be private. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert, please visit our floral store.