Obituary of Robert Smith

"R.J." Robert J. Smith was born in Claiborne County, Tennessee on April 1, 1933. He was the only son born from the union of the late Tillman Esco Smith and the late Sally Leona (Meyers) Smith. He was baptized at the Yellow Creek Church in Middlesboro Kentucky, and had perfect attendance in Sunday School. R.J. moved to Michigan and took employment at Frank Volpi's service station at 3rd and Winchester, and later owned a Leonard's Gas Station. He married the former Donna Volpi on October 17, 1952. From this union would come the birth of eight children. R.J was never afraid of work. After the service stations he took employment with the Chrysler Company for several years before being hired by Ford Motor. During a layoff he sought work with the Laborers Local. He and Donna also moved to Florida for four years and worked at Aero before being called back to Ford. R.J. retired after twenty-one years as an inspector in 2000. He was a member of the UAW Local 723 and AARP. R.J. enjoyed playing poker, attending horse races, fishing, and hunting. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan. Robert Smith age 77 of Monroe passed away at 11:37am, Wednesday, August 4, 2010 at Mercy Memorial Hospital. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by two children: Betty Jean Winkleman and Robert J. Smith Jr.; three grandchildren: Steven Ridner, Justin U'Ran, and Jacob U'Ran; and three siblings: Bobbie Joe Smith, Ethel Bullard, and Edna Harrell. His memory will be cherished by wife: Donna of Monroe; six children: Bobbie (Rick) Soleau of Franklin, North Carolina, James "Bo"(Peggy) Smith, Roy L. Smith, and Arletta "Kay" U'Ran all of Monroe, Donna (Richard) Fussell of Macclenny, Florida, Tina (Earl) Standifer; and niece: Tiffany Paolina, both of Monroe, whom he raised from age 8; three sisters: Myrtle Wilson of Middlesboro, KY, Ruby Longsworth of Monroe, and Mary (Morris) Newman of Tecumseh. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm, Sunday, August 8, 2010 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185 where a Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am, Monday, August 9. The Rev. John Bullard, his nephew of Hope Baptist and the Rev. Bobbie Smith of Grape Missionary Baptist will co-officiate. Procession will follow to St. Joseph Cemetery for burial.