Richard E. Smith

Veteran and dedicated Smithtown teacher, Richard Edward Smith, formally of St. James (1968-2015) and recently of Palm Coast Florida, passed away on January 26, 2025 at the age of 81. Born in Queens, New York on November 29, 1943, Rick grew up in Baldwin and then East Meadow. Rick attended East Meadow High School, lettering in wrestling and track & field. He then attended Hofstra University – and received his B.A. in History and then a masters in History on a R.O.T.C scholarship. Rick entered the US Army in July 1965, serving his country in Vietnam. Achieving the rank of Lieutenant, Rick was a member of the First Signal Brigade (1966-1967) earning a Bronze Star. A proud patriot, he was honorably discharged in August 1967. The following year he was hired as a history teacher for Smithtown High School. His storied career spanned over 30 years and during this time, Rick continued to pursue higher education, earning a second Masters degree from Stony Brook University. Even after his official retirement from classroom teaching, he continued to tutor students for the Smithtown School District until 2014 and was an adjunct Professor at Five Towns College.Rick was an active volunteer in the community, serving the youth as a Cub Scout Scoutmaster for many years and coaching St.James-Smithtown Little league.

Rick was an voracious reader reading 2-3 books per week and a history buff – especially military history. During his retirement years, he channeled his love for reading and military history as a collector of military memorabilia. Rick was an active member of the St James VFW Post #395.

Rick is survived by his loving wife, Linda Ann Smith and his devoted children: Andrew (Tiffany)Smith,Jarrod (Melody) Smith, Amanda (Adrian) Mason, Corey (Janet )Gregory, Travis (Jessica) Gregory andhis nine cherished grandchildren: Ashley, Nicolette, Hunter, Samantha, Sabrina, Bella, Sophie, Penelope and Lucy.

Services will be held at Branch Funeral Home in Smithtown on Sunday March 9th from 1-5 pm.

Rick will be buried at Calverton National Cemetery on Monday March 10th at approximately 10 am.