Robert L. Smith Sr.

Robert L. Smith Sr. passed away at the NYS Veteran’s Home of Oxford on Monday, March 23, 2026, with his family by his side. Robert was born on May 31, 1931, in Norwich, NY to parents Lynn and Bessie (Hackett) Smith. He was predeceased by his parents, and by his siblings Doris, Jenny, Charles, Barbara, Bertha, his twin sister Ruth, Sally, and Mary Lou.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Phyllis (Doty) Smith, his children Terri Ann Larnard (Thomas), Kathleen Moser (Ross Joscelyn), Robert Smith Jr. (JoAnn), and Patricia Carman (Chip). He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Robert was a graduate of Norwich City Schools, Norwich, NY. He joined the United States Army immediately after graduation and proudly served from 1951-1954. He served during the Korean Conflict on the front lines in infantry and heavy mortar. Upon returning home from the Army, he married the love of his life, Phyllis Doty Smith, on May 17, 1952. Robert had a lifelong passion for cars, which defined much of his career. He spent decades as an auto mechanic and owner of Bob Smith Auto Sales in Oxford, NY. In 1980, he relocated to Schroon Lake, NY, where he went on to work for Word of Life Bible Institute. A man of deep faith, Robert was actively involved in his church community, faithfully serving as a deacon for several years at Bible Baptist Church in Pottersville, NY.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Robert’s memory can be made to the NYS Veteran’s Home Oxford, NY. 4207 State Highway 220 Oxford, NY 13830.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Behe Funeral Home Inc. 21 Main Street, Oxford, NY. Calling hours will be held at the funeral home on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 4:00PM-6:00PM. Friends and family may share memories and condolences by visiting www.behefuneralhome.com.