Robert John Smith

Robert John Smith (Bob), age 79, passed peacefully on May 25, 2023 at the Alvin C. York Veterans Administration Medical Center in Murfreesboro, TN.

Bob was born in Wausau, Wisconsin to the late Gordon and Mildred Smith. He enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and achieved the rank of Sergeant before an honorable discharge in 1968. Bob maintained a successful career in finance before eventually starting a painting business until retiring in 2010. He enjoyed gardening and trips to the beach with his wife, Sandra. Bob loved to fish, especially with his buddy Ron, and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren the sport.

Serving on mission trips was a priority for Bob. He treasured his experiences on the mission field and traveled to numerous countries including Mexico, Kenya, Nicaragua and Brazil. He generously gave to multiple Christian organizations dedicated to helping others and spreading the gospel. Bob was a man defined by faith and his relationship with Christ.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard Smith. He is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Sandra Sullivan Smith; daughter, Jennifer (Byron) Clifton of Myrtle Beach, SC; son, Michael Smith of Nashville, TN; step-daughters Mandy (Dave) DeRocher of Brentwood, TN and Molly (Jeremi) Griggs of Brentwood, TN; 8 grandchildren, Jacob, Presley, David-Neil, Olivia, Ben, Shelby, Georgia-Grace and Sam; sister, Sherri (Ed) Andrews of Brookfield, WI; brothers, Ronald (Mary) Smith of Wesley Chapel, FL, Roger (Kathy) Smith of Bonita, CA and Raymond Siegl of Minneapolis, MN, as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will not be a formal memorial service, as Bob's ashes will be scattered across his favorite lake where he spent countless hours enjoying God's creation.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses of Alvin C. York Veterans Hospice Unit for their loving, compassionate and professional care.

In lieu of flowers, the family is recommending donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse.