Robert L. Smith

TAUNTON, ROBERT SMITH - On August 8, 2023, after a period of declining health, Retired Police Captain Robert L. Smith, age 80, passed away peacefully at his home in Taunton with his loving wife by his side. He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Joan Smith, his daughter Janine (Kenny)Spencer, his grandson Steven Whalley Jr., his granddaughter Kendra Spencer and her fiancé Colbey Fournier, his great-granddaughter Laila Pacheco, and his great- grandson Julian Chaves. He was preceded in death by his first wife Carol, his daughter Michelle Smith and his granddaughter Kyla Whalley.

Robert was born and raised in Taunton, the son of Clarence and Rita (Cronin) Smith. He was the beloved brother of Joanne Green, Nancy (Ronald) Gonsalves, Paul (Mary) Smith, and Dennis (Lori) Smith. He was also the brother of the late Richard (Pam) Smith. He leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as several cousins. His niece Jessica Abaciano was his much loved godchild. He also leaves his sister-in-law Maureen and his brother-in-law Ted (Jen) Medeiros.

A 1960 graduate of Coyle High School and a graduate of Stonehill College, he obtained his Masters Degree from Anna Maria College. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. He went on to serve the city of Taunton as a police officer, rising to the rank of Captain. He retired in 2007 after an exemplary 42 year career.

A family man through and through, he enjoyed cheering on his son-in-law Kenny at Seekonk Speedway each season. He spent as much time as he could with family, including a monthly lunch date with all his brothers and sisters. Nothing was more precious to him than his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bob was active in the recovery community for 45 years, helping people in every way he could. He was generous with his time, his money, his wisdom, and his humor. If you made him laugh, you were special to him. Bob enjoyed his involvement in the YMCA and he had many friends there. He served on the Board of Directors of CCBC for over 20 years. He got together regularly with former colleagues, and remained loyal to every friend he ever had. If you made a mistake in life, even a very serious one, he believed in redemption and would always give you a second chance, even a third one.

Bob, as most people called him, or to some he was Smittty, was a man who loved people and enjoyed being around people. Sensing his genuine interest, people loved him in return. He will be very sorely missed by many.

Calling Hours for Bob will be held on Sunday, August 13, 2023 from 1-4pm in the Crapo-Hathaway Funeral Home, 350 Somerset Ave., Taunton. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, August 14th at 11am in Holy Family Parish, 372 Middleboro Ave. East Taunton. KINDLY MEET AT CHURCH. Interment in Saint Francis Old Cemetery, Glebe St., Taunton. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the charity of your choice in memory of him. To leave an online condolences visit www.hathawayfunerals.com.