Robert W. Smith

TURNER - Robert W. Smith, 86 died Thursday morning due to cancer. Born in Payette Idaho, Bob came to live in Turner in 1944. It is there he found the loves of his life - Shirley L. Baker and the Lord Jesus Christ. Bob and Shirley were married for 65 1/2 years where they experienced the life the Lord had entrusted to them. As Bob would say "but it was not long enough" or "where did it go". He worked for Marion County for 42 1/2 years. Surviving along with his wife Shirley are 4 children: Robert Smith (wife Linda, of Salem), Steven Smith (wife Belinda, of Jefferson), Lori Lulay (husband Larry, of Turner), and Tim Smith (wife Linda, of Turner) who each count it a privilege to have been his children. He is also remembered by 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and 1 grandchild who preceded him. In addition he has 2 living sisters: Marian Woodrum (of Aumsville) and Rhoda Long (of Roseburg), and was preceded by 2 sisters.

In 1955 he acknowledged his need for Jesus Christ when he accepted this free gift of salvation by asking Him into his heart as his Lord and Savior. This act molded his decisions throughout the rest of his life. Christ and his family were his life's focus. He taught Sunday school until August of this year when his health made it too difficult to continue. His Christian love and example were/are treasured by many. Memorial services will be held Monday afternoon at 1 p.m. at Turner Church of God.