Richard Lee Smith

Richard L. “Dick” Smith died on December 18, 2020, at the age of 80 after an over six-year struggle with Primary Progressive Aphasia.  Dick will be lovingly remembered by Marilynn, his wife of a day short of 55 years; by their sons Charles (Lisa) and Michael (Jennifer); by his sister Beverly Burgess and brother Nelson Henderson in Michigan.  He was predeceased by his mother Dorothy Greenman Smith, his father Charles E. Smith, and his stepmother Estelle Davis Smith. His numerous nieces and nephews and their families, his extended family, and his dear friends and former friends will also treasure their memories.  He enjoyed his family life, both in Georgia and in Michigan and Indiana.  Dick was a caring husband and a doting father and father-in-law.

A native of Michigan, Dick graduated from Stevensville High School, Lake Michigan College, Central Michigan University, the University of South Carolina, and the University of Illinois.  In 1964 he was commissioned in the U.S. Navy and attended the U.S. Navy Supply Corps School.  He maintained his naval connection by affiliating with and retiring from the Navy Reserves as a Commander.  After completing his Master’s degree and Ph.D. in Sociology, he was Assistant Professor at University of Alabama at Birmingham and College of Charleston.  In 1980 Commander Smith was recalled to active duty to the Supply Corps School for five years, and he subsequently completed his professional career as an instructor there as a civilian employee.  The two special Navy periods for him were during his active-duty years at the Supply Corps School and the five years serving at the Supply Center at the U.S. Navy base in Yokosuka, Japan, and teaching part-time for the University of Maryland University College.

Dick was a dedicated member of Lions International, having served a few times as the President and Treasurer of the Oconee Lions Club.  He was also a Georgia District 18-D Governor.  Until communication for him became too hard, he was a successful New Club Development coordinator with Lions International.

Dick Smith was known for his steady, calm demeanor, dependable concerns for family and friends, and by his dry wit.  Music and watching sports kept him occupied.  He loved reading and traveling, as well as getting together with his extended family after he retired.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 27, at Lord and Stephens, West Chapel from 12:00 until 2:00 p.m.

Memorial donations in memory of Dick may be made to Lions International Foundation at lionsclub.org .

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com