Obituary of Richard Allen Smith

Richard A. Smith, 78, of Kent, WA and West Orange, NJ, passed away suddenly on August 6, 2024.

 

Richard was born in New York, growing up the middle child of seven in the Bronx to Francis Smith and Ethel Smith (nee Schweitzer). He earned his bachelor’s degree from Manhattan College. Richard then served as LTJG Smith in the United States Navy from 1969 to 1972 during the Vietnam War aboard Patrol Squadron 10. He was a computer programmer at AT&T in Bedminster for over 20 years, before retiring in 2005. After retirement he still freelanced for various companies, including the Association for Cultural Equity.

 

Richard was an adventurer at heart, savoring his time with friends and family from all over the world. Taking each opportunity to share a meal, a drink, and a story. Whether he was at a local pub in New Jersey, an oyster bar in Seattle, a vineyard in the Pfaltz, hiking in Norway, or having a gelato in Genova, Rich was always game to share his passions with loved ones. His loss will be felt immensely by the many who were lucky enough to know him and hope his final adventure is full of wonder.

 

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his sister Laurette and brother Gerard. He is survived by his daughters Francesca “Kiki” Smith-Archiapatti, her husband Matthew Dvorin; Veronika “Niki” Smith-Archiapatti, her husband Sean Girvan, grandchildren Violet and Lachlan Girvan; brothers, Francis and Robert Smith, and sisters, Catherine Mills and Christine Smith-Notarnicola; and his former wife, Laura Archiapatti.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held in West Orange, NJ on Saturday, September 14th in honor of Richard’s birthday weekend.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate a donation to the Association for Cultural Equity (culturalequity.org/donate) in Richard’s name. For more information or to send condolences please visit prestonfuneralhome.net.

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