Dr. Robert Owen Smith

Dr. Robert Owen Smith, 96, passed away on Saturday, January 17th, 2026 at Sunrise Assisted Living in Leominster with family by his side. Bob lived a full and active life, defined by his career, his passions, and his family.

Bob was married to the love of his life, Judith Ann (Perault) Smith, for nearly 65 years before her passing in 2019. Together, they raised five children: Robert O. Smith Jr. of Leominster, James Smith and wife Lisa of Hingham, Timothy Smith and wife Karen of Port Charlotte FL, Laura Deming and her husband Glenn of Bluffton SC, and Rosemary Sullender and husband Eric of Lunenburg. He was also the proud grandfather of 13 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Bob is survived by his sister, Judy Smith of FL and predeceased by his sister Elizabeth "Betty" Salifia, and brother John "Jack" Smith.

Born in Leominster on October 23, 1929, to the late Owen Francis and Madeline (Sullivan) Smith, Bob developed a lifelong passion for learning and adventure. A proud graduate of St. Bernard's High School, he went on to Fitchburg State College and later attended Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, graduating in 1959. Before beginning his dental career, Bob served two years at Fort Bragg, NC. He went on to practice family dentistry for over 30 years at 30 Summer Street in Fitchburg, retiring in 1992.

In his personal life, Bob was an avid runner and cyclist. Many weekends, he would embark on long runs or bike rides often stopping at his children's homes for a quick drink or swim with his grandchildren before continuing on his way. Bob ran his first marathon a week before his 65th birthday, and his next just two weeks later, with family cheering him on. He also enjoyed reading and challenging himself with crossword puzzles, keeping his mind sharp and his body active well into his later years.

A devout Catholic, Bob's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He attended St. Leo's Church in Leominster as a youth, and later became a member of St. Bernard in Fitchburg, and St. Boniface in Lunenburg after marrying Judith.

"I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference" – Robert Frost

At the family's request, funeral services and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a Dementia or Alzheimer's disease research foundation of your choice in Bob's memory.