Robert J. Smith

Robert J. Smith, affectionately known as "Jimmy" to those who held him dear, passed away on December 23, 2024. Born to William and Eileen Smith on August 21, 1946, in Plattsburgh, NY, Robert's life was characterized by an unwavering devotion to his family and a deep-rooted commitment to his community. His journey from birth to a fulfilling life in Templeton, Massachusetts, is a testament to his resilience and spirit. He was a man who, in the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "laughed often and loved much."

Robert's career spanned three decades for the MA DMR, where he worked diligently in the Valley Barn and then in the Shipping/Receiving Department. His colleagues knew him as a reliable and dedicated individual, always ready to lend a hand. In 2003, Robert retired from the Templeton Development Center. He then worked for the Narragansett Regional School District delivering food to the different schools in the district for five years, leaving a rich legacy of service. He carried his industrious spirit into retirement, becoming a beloved figure in his local community. Robert believed in the words of Albert Pike, "What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal."

On March 23, 1972, Robert married the love of his life, Ann Kataisto. Their relationship was a beautiful partnership, marked by mutual respect and boundless love. Together they built a family and created countless cherished memories. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Ann, his sons Jonathan and Jamie, daughter-in-law, Jessica, granddaughter Jyliannah, and grandsons Jamison and Jackson, as well as sisters-in-law Jane Frederico (John), Donna Smith, and brothers-in-law, Wayne (Katherine), Paul (Helen), Mark (Christa), Jon (Shirley), and Scott Kataisto and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Eileen Smith, brothers Michael and Terry Smith, sister Nancy Hammond, and brother-in-law Edward Hammond. Robert's memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a man who truly embodied the statement, "The heart of a man is the worth of a man."

Please visit Robert's memorial page to share your memories and upload photos of our beloved Robert. Your stories and pictures will serve as a comforting reminder of Robert's lasting impact on our lives. 

Calling Hours will be Friday, January 3, 2024 from 11:00AM-12:00PM with a Funeral to follow at 12:00PM at Mack Family Funeral Homes Gardner - Chapel, 105 Central Street, Gardner, MA. 

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor & Dan Serina Directors.