Obituary of Robert "Bob" Smith

Born: May 19, 1940 - Passed Away: November 4, 2023

Robert “Bob” Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2023, surrounded by his loving family in Melbourne, Florida. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Bob was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to proud parents Robert and Marjorie Smith. He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Thomas and Jeffrey Smith, and his sister, Helen Bentley.

Bob attended LaSalle Military School in Long Island until his family moved to Florida where he graduated from DeLand High School. He attended the University of Florida, ultimately graduating from Stetson University where he also pursued a Masters Degree. His passion for all sports led him to become Head Basketball Coach at his alma mater, DeLand High School.

As the head coach at DeLand High School, Bob was recognized as "Central Florida Coach of the Year" in his first year - an accomplishment that highlighted his impact on his players. He also served as the head coach of the Freshman team and an assistant for the Varsity basketball team at Stetson University. Many of his former players have reached out over the years to express their gratitude for the profound impact he had on their lives.

Following coaching, Bob opened a sporting goods store in DeLand and served as the President of the Merchants Division of the Chamber of Commerce. His dedication to the community did not go unnoticed, as he was honored with the Jaycees' "Outstanding Young Man of the Year" award.

Bob embarked on a successful career with Sherwood Medical Company, ultimately becoming the head of the customer service department for the parent company, American Home Products, in St. Louis.

After dedicating 25 successful years to his career, Bob retired to Melbourne, Florida, where he embraced his passion for golf at Suntree Country Club and even achieved the remarkable milestone of shooting his age!

During his well-deserved retirement, Bob cherished every moment with his family and grandchildren, found joy in organizing his baseball card collection and playing golf, and enjoyed sharing meals and good times with dear friends.

All who knew Bob also know of his undying love and dedication to his wife of 57 years, Eileen Smith.  She was the love of his life, and he spent every day proving that to her and everyone around them.  Their three children, Rob Smith (spouse Robyn), Shannon Hendon (spouse Harry), and Jeff “Skylar” Smith (spouse Mary), his six grandchildren, Makenzie, Carter, Danielle, Amber, Harper, and Casey, meant the world to him and brought him obvious pride, joy, and happiness. Bob also had a special place in his heart for his many nieces and nephews and the extended members of his large family.  

He was known for his love of life and of those around him.  Quick with a laugh, or a compliment and always up for cards, or a game, or anything (especially shenanigans), Bob was larger than life and will be remembered fondly by many.

Bob Smith's memorial service will be held at St. John’s the Evangelistic Catholic Church on Friday, January 5th, 2024 at 11:00 AM.  Following this service, a celebration of his life will take place at Suntree Country Club from 4:00 – 7:00 PM in Melbourne, Florida, offering friends and family an opportunity to remember and honor a life well-lived. His memory will forever be cherished, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.  In lieu of flowers, the family would like those who are inclined to support the DeLand High School Basketball team through this link.  https://everloved.com/life-of/robert-smith-melbourne-fl/