Robert G. Smith (Graham), 94, of Schley, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, died at his family homestead “Creekside,” Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2017. 

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Pacific Theatre. After the war, he met the love of his life, Mary Anne W. von Gemmingen (deceased).

In 50 years of marriage, they had six children: Robert G. Smith Jr. (Patricia), David V. Smith (Helena Goldstein), Jane S. Nunn (Charles), Elmslie B. Smith (Carole), Elizabeth E. Smith, and Marianne F. Smith Vargas (Richard). He was “Grandpa” and “Graham-Daddy-Graham” to eight wonderful grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren; he unselfishly loved his numerous nieces and nephews. 

As an entrepreneur, he owned an appliance repair business in Richmond and finished his working career in 2001 as Postmaster of Schley Post Office. He had many interests and talents, and he passed his lifelong passion for learning to his children. A voracious reader, he especially enjoyed historical fiction, Revolutionary, Civil War, and World War II non-fiction, and suspense novels. He fished on the Ware River until he was 93 and continued to eat his favorite Ware River treats: raw oysters and oyster crabs, until his death. He attributed his long life to “PB&B.” 

Graham became a Master Mason in 1969 of the Westhampton Lodge No. 302 A.F. & A.M; an Acca Shriner, Richmond, Virginia, in 1970 (longtime member of the Klownz Unit); and a member of the American Legion Post 75 in Gloucester, in 1979. 

Graham lived a simple, unassuming life, spoke kindly, and loved generously. He “never met a stranger,” adopting many family friends. Friends and extended family around the world regretfully bid farewell to the wonderful man who touched so many over the years. 

Please send donations in Graham’s memory to the Gloucester Fire and Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 1417, Gloucester, Va. 23061 who unfailingly served him and his family in their times of need.

Andrews Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.