Robert Smith

Robert "Bob" Smith, 82, of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away peacefully at home on November 21, 2025, surrounded by deep love and the quiet presence of family. Born on July 11, 1943, in Union Hill, New Jersey, Bob carried the values of his East Coast roots with him throughout a life marked by service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. He made Alaska his home beginning in July 2011, embracing its community and landscape with joy.
Bob lived his calling as a United Methodist pastor, serving congregations in Washington, D.C., New Jersey, and Anchorage. His ministry was shaped by kindness, curiosity, and a belief that faith must be lived actively in the world. A defining personal symbol of his beliefs showed when Bob began growing his beard after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Bob vowed to never shave it again, as a reminder of the work still to be done in the world. Bob was known for sermons that made people think, laugh, and sometimes argue, usually all in the same conversation. In both ministry and everyday interactions, Bob led with compassion that touched countless lives.
On August 12, 1966, Bob married his sweetheart, Judith "Judy" Hellmuth, in Washington, D.C. Their partnership of nearly six decades was filled with love, humor, and numerous gatherings and travels, with family and friends.
Bob is survived by his wife Judy; daughters Judith (Brent) Goodrum and Anna Bourguignon-Lukas; and grandchildren Emily, Elizabeth, Hannah Goodrum, Logan, and Arianna Lukas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Smith and Anna Bourguignon, as well as five brothers and one sister.
Bob faced glioblastoma following his January 2024 diagnosis with extraordinary strength, humor, and grace. Even in illness, he continued writing, reflecting, and showing deep care for those around him.
Bob loved travel, storytelling, thoughtful conversation, and engaging with new ideas. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, integrity, and fierce love that will live on through laughter, stories, and all those who loved him.
A service will be held at 2:00 PM on November 29, 2025, at Turnagain UMC, officiated by Pastor Nico Reijns.