Robert Smith

Published 5:07 pm Thursday, October 19, 2023

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Robert “Bob” Smith, 95, passed away on Oct. 17, 2023, in Burlington, N.C. He married the love of his life, Annie Duncan, on June 10, 1950. They set up housekeeping in Virginia Beach, then later in life built a home and moved to Windsor where they remained until Ann passed away in June of 2022. Bob is predeceased by his parents, Robert and Thelma Smith; in-laws William and Annie Duncan and his son-in-law Sammy (Sam) Cowan.

Bob is survived by his son, William Smith (Jeannette) and daughter, Cindy Cowan; three grandchildren, Billy Smith Jr., Lindsey Smith and Jerry Johnson; and two great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his faithful cousins, Al Rowe Gaskill, Donna Morgan and Dawn Price, as well as his good friend, John Perry.

Bob served in the Marine Corps and then returned to civilian life and pursued a career in radiology as an x-ray technician. Later in life, he became the coordinator of civil emergency services for the City of Norfolk. During his career, he was also a member of the Kempsville Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad for 30 years. After retiring, Bob worked for the City of Suffolk to help set up the Office of Emergency Services. He also became very efficient at helping with housekeeping and taking care of Ann.

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The family would like to thank Lake Prince Woods for the care he received in Assisted Living and Rehab along with Trinity Hospice. Bob made many friends at Lake Prince and leaves behind a very special friend, Mary Jane.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Nov. 4, at Oakland Christian Church officiated by the Rev. Jason Stump and the Rev. Dr. Keith Emerson, with a reception to follow. Burial will be private at Newman Memorial Cemetery at Oakland Christian Church. Donations can be made to Oakland Christian Church, R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home and Crematory, Downtown Suffolk Chapel is serving the family. Condolences may be registered at RWBakerFH.com.