Robert J. Smith Jr.

Robert J. Smith Jr., 75, of Holmdel, NJ-known affectionately as Bob, Rob, Bobby, Dad, and Grandpa-passed away peacefully on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Care One at Wall.

Born in Brooklyn, Robert was raised in Fords and later lived in Edison before settling in Holmdel, where he made his home for the past 41 years. He shared 53½ years of marriage with the love of his life, Anita Fitzsimmons Smith, a partnership rooted in devotion, laughter, and family.

Robert enjoyed a successful career as an insurance broker with Willis in New York City prior to his retirement. Throughout his professional life, he was actively engaged in several distinguished organizations, including the John's Street Club and the Young Presidents Organization, and he proudly served on the Board of St. John's University. A devoted parishioner of St. Benedict's Roman Catholic Church, Robert generously gave his time to the parish's Finance Committee, School Board, and Knights of Columbus chapter.

One of the organizations closest to Robert's heart was the Boy Scouts of America. Over the years, he served as a Regional Director and was a member of the National Executive Board. While he was proud of his national service, his deepest commitment was always local-especially to the Monmouth Council, where he dedicated countless hours mentoring and supporting young people, including his three Eagle Scout sons.

Though Robert valued his professional and volunteer service, his greatest joy was time spent with family and friends. He cherished every gathering, conversation, and moment shared with those he loved, creating memories that will be held close forever.

Robert was predeceased by his parents, Robert J. Smith Sr. and Theresa Smith, and his brother, Kevin Smith. He is survived by his beloved wife, Anita Smith; his children, Colleen Sheehy (John), Robert Smith (Aurea), Christopher Smith (Casey), and Ryan Smith; and his eight adored grandchildren-Megan, Maeve, and Fiona Sheehy; Robert and Teresa Smith; Hannah and Henry Smith; and Shaelen Smith. He is also survived by his siblings Thomas Smith, Maureen McHenry, Margaret Patrick, Keith Smith, and Paul Smith, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Robert's life on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, January 9, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Benedict's Roman Catholic Church, 165 Bethany Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733, followed by entombment at St. Gabriel Cemetery and Mausoleum in Marlboro. The family welcomes donations to the Raine Foundation, rainefoundation.com/donate.html, in lieu of flowers.