William Robert "Rab" Smith Sr.

Hartford, Connecticut, lost a cherished member of its community on October 30, 2024, with the passing of William R. Smith, affectionately known as "Rab," at the age of 98. Born on February 10, 1926, in Hartford, Connecticut, Rab was the son of the late Benjamin and Pearl (Woods) Smith. A lifelong resident of Hartford and a devoted member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church, Rab was known for his kind heart, gentle spirit, and steadfast dedication to his community. Rab graduated from Weaver High School in 1944 and attended Hampton Institute. Shortly after, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy from August 17, 1944, to 1946, and was a WWII veteran. Throughout his life, Rab was involved in many professional and civic roles. He worked with Capital Light & Supply Co., Tilley's Electric, and Major Electric Supply Co. and
served as an aide to Congressman Cotter. Rab held the esteemed position of District Deputy Sheriff and was the second highest-ranking sheriff in the state of Connecticut. He also served on Hartford's City Council, the Board of Assessment Appeals, and as a State of Connecticut Elector.
Rab's commitment to his community was further reflected in his active participation in several organizations. He served as an Honorary Past Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of CT and was a member of Tuscan Lodge #17 F&AM, Hartford Consistory #80
A&ASR, Makalia Temple #172 A.E.A.O.N.M.S., American Legion Post #142, and New Nutmeg Charter Oak Elk Lodge #67 I.B.P.O.E.
Additionally, Rab was an avid golfer, lifelong learner, enthusiastic reader, and lover of travel. He also loved watching his favorite teams - the New York Giants and the New York Mets.
Rab was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Agnes D. Smith, his son Ronald Ware, and his siblings Benjamin and Charles Smith, Thelma Hall, and Barbara Drayton. He is survived by his children, Sharon Smith of Hartford, William (Doris) Smith of Colchester, and Rev. Dr. Finitia Armstrong of East Point, GA, as well as Robert Ware of Hartford, CT, and Jubae Knight of Moore, SC. His grandchildren, who brought him immense pride, include KeJuan & Nickia Miller, William III, Rasheem & Ashley Smith, Meisha (Terrance) & Jesse Armstrong (Chrisandra),TaRori (Jonathan) Robinson, Rory, Jr. (Shamari) Weaver, and Etta, Raven, and Patricia Weaver. Rab's legacy continues through his great-grandchildren Sherell Davis, Bria Miller, KeJuan Miller, II, Ke'Jhan Miller, Kimbrae Miller, Anai, Alani, Rihanna, Camille Smith, Aria and Bryson Pierce, Christopher Wilson, Jordyn Armstrong, Rory III, Royal, Ross Weaver, and Ethan Howell, and his great-great-grandchildren Na'ryah Mearise, Nore Clark, Tatum Coleman, Caiden Moreland and Michael (Masyn) Hansley. Rab also leaves behind his cherished nephews Terrence Smith, WM Charles Teale and Elder Antoine Smith; special nieces Dr. Kimberly James, Shari Cousins, Rev. Bridget Pope, and Camille Moore; and his bonus grandson Jevon Myers. He is also remembered by special sons, Derrick Newby and Bishop Darrell Collins; bonus daughters, Dr. Yolanda Johnson, Patricia "Tisshie" Lopez, and Glenda Thomas; godsons Keith Knight, Chris Bowen, and Troy Crooms; and special friends Floyd Bagwell, James Seabrooks, and Marie Alston.
Rab's presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of compassion and generosity will live on in the hearts of those he touched. May he rest in peace, knowing his life made an enduring impact on the community he loved so dearly.