Richard Edward Smith Sr.

On October 22, 2025, Richard Edward “Ed” Smith, Sr., age 92, of Reston, Virginia, passed away peacefully. Born on September 15, 1933, to Iris Jennings and James Smith, and lovingly raised by his matriarch, Mattie Jennings Smith, Ed lived a life defined by compassion, strength, and devotion to family. Ed was a father, mentor, and protector — a man whose integrity and boundless generosity touched everyone who knew him. On June 8, 1963, he married the love of his life, Vera Thomas Smith, beginning a 62-year partnership built on faith, laughter, and unwavering love. Together, they blended a beautiful family of four daughters before adding a son and daughter to the brood. They raised their six children from Upstate New York to Commack, Long Island, New York. His beloved children, Jacquelyn Smith (James Armstrong), Wanda Tillman (the late James Tillman), Robin Richardson, the late Dawn Smith, Tiffany Thomas-Smith, and Richard Smith, Jr. (Linda Smith) honored their beloved father. Ed’s greatest joy came from family. He is survived by seven devoted grandchildren, David Perry, Jr. (Eboniece Perry), Jessica Smith Armstrong (John Fratello), Ben’e Sims, Germaine Johnson, Taylor Richardson, Miles Vando and Luke Vando — and thirteen cherished great-grandchildren — Malik Morris, Kalayn Perry, Sincere Ellis, Kaylee Perry, Devi Perry, Delanee Perry, Phoenix Perry, Christopher Lewis, Sophia Young, Chase Johnson, Charlie Johnson and Cameron Johnson enjoyed the love and guidance of their grandfather. Ed was ever-present — in person or in spirit — for every wedding, birth, christening, college drop-off, graduation, and birthday celebration. He was the little league coach, scout troop master, and ski trip dad; the one who showed up when cars broke down, when hearts or ones were broken, or when anyone needed a steady hand and a listening ear. He filled our lives with laughter, courage, and wisdom. Born in Greenwood, South Carolina, and later moving to Hudson, New York, Ed rose from humble beginnings to a life of purpose and impact. A standout athlete at Hudson High School, he excelled in track, basketball, and football before joining the National Guard. He attended Adelphi University, earning a degree in Social Work, and built an honorable career in law enforcement and social services. He was also an avid golfer and fitness enthusiast, always encouraging his children and grandchildren to stay active and pursue excellence. Education was central to his values — he proudly ensured that all his children attended college. A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Hunter Woods at Trails Edge, 2222 Colts Neck Road, Reston, Virginia 20191. In lieu of flowers, we graciously accept tributes in Ed’s name to support First Tee of Greater Trenton, an organization whose mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. In honor of Ed’s lifelong love of golf and commitment to service. contributions may be made to First Tee – Greater Trenton, 1550 Stuyvesant Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08618.

Richard Edward Smith Sr.

September 15, 1933 - October 22, 2025