Russell G. Smith

Russell G. Smith of Hopedale, MA , 91, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026. He was the husband of the late Jennifer Smith.

Russell was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was the son of the late Earl and Olive Smith of Milwaukee, WI and the brother of late Earl "Bud" Smith of Saginaw, MI.

As a young man Russell earned and was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.

Russell was a graduate Marquette University of Milwaukee, MA where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration.

Russell worked as the Marketing Manager for Arrow Hart of Hartford, CT and he later became the National Marketing Manager for Russell Electric of Hingham, MA. Later in life he was President of Bowater Inc., a national giftware manufacturer and distributor. Russell owned and operated Bowater, Inc. until his retirement.

Russell was an Army Veteran serving in the 7th Army and later in the 10th Mountain Division. His served during post-World War II Germany as a member of the Occupied Allied Forces. During his service Russell was assigned to the Regimental Army Band holding the position of lead trumpet.

Russell served as Commander of the George L. Wood VFW Post # 5594 in Upton, MA where he spearheaded a VA outreach program for veterans of Upton and the surrounding towns.

Russell was a 32nd Degree Mason. He was raised a Master Mason in Lake Lodge #189 Free and Accepted Masons of Milwaukee, WI. Later he was exhalated to the degree of 32nd Mason at Seneca Consistory #53. He later became a Shriner and was affiliated with Tripoli Temple of Milwaukee, WI. Russell was affiliated with Montgomery Lodge of Milford, MA where he played a pivotal role in the nationally recognized haunted house charity program known as "The HOUSE."

Russell was an Honorary Deputy Sheriff of Jefferson County, Kentucky.

Russell enjoyed antiquing, fishing/boating, watercolor painting and spending time with his family. His home featured many landscapes he painted. His artistic hand played prominently in the products he marketed and manufactured as President and Owner of Bowater, Inc.

He is survived by his children; Todd Smith, Perry Smith and Chad Smith all from Hopedale, MA, and Shawn Smith and his wife Kirsten of Oxford, MA. Russell also leaves behind his lifelong companion, Peg Rothwell of Hopedale, MA and six grandchildren; Emily, Michael, Taylor, Jennifer, Jacob and Joshua. Russell is also survived by two nephews; Scott and Terry Smith, both of Michigan.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 from 5 – 8 PM in the Buma-Sargeant Funeral Home, 42 Congress St., Milford.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from the funeral home with a procession leaving at 9:30 AM for a funeral service at 10 AM in the Trinity Episcopal Church, 17 Congress St., Milford.

Burial, with military honors, will follow in Hopedale Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/