Robert Edward Smith's Obituary
Robert Edward Smith was born on October 19, 1930, in Tarboro, North Carolina to Wiley and Fannie (Bryant) Smith. Robert received his education in Tarboro, NC. He adopted Christianity early in life. His family were active members of Saint Paul Baptist Church and O.E.S Eastern Star Baptist Church in Tarboro, NC. Robert is the twelfth and final sibling to pass away. Erma Lee Dickens Smith, his wife of 58 years, passed away prior to him in 2011. Robert died on October 3, 2025, two weeks and two days before his ninety-fifth birthday.
Robert E. Smith enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on November 5, 1951, during a time when the Corps remained segregated. Despite the challenges and resistance to integration, Robert demonstrated exceptional perseverance and commitment throughout his military career. His dedication and exemplary conduct enabled him to rise through the ranks, attaining the highest enlisted position of Sergeant Major.
Robert served in the Korean and Vietnam wars. He held various leadership roles and fulfilled assignments both in the United States and overseas. After thirty years of service, he retired Honorably from the Marine Corps.
Sergeant Major Smith's decorations include the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Navy Unit Commendation, the Good Conduct Medal with stars (10 awards), the National Defense Service Medal, with one star, the Korean Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross, the United Nations Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.
As a member of the Montford Point Marines Association, he is part of a distinguished group of African Americans who have made significant contributions to the defense and security of both the United States and the international community. He was a resolute member of the W.A. Patillo High School National Alumni Association of Tarboro, NC.
Robert “Jabo” was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, surrogate father, uncle, mentor, and friend. Loved ones remember him for his kindness, generosity, humor, and warm smile. Robert is survived by his four children: Brenda Smith, Michael Smith (Rosalie), Vanessa Smith Wood (Lawrence), and Robert Smith (Vanessa); eleven grandchildren: Alicia Petty, Aaron Clark (Indra), Adam Petty (Tanesha), Alan Clark (Abigail), Brittany Foy (Brooke), Mariah Cepe-Smith (JC), Desiree Symons (Daniel), Cameron Smith, Christopher Smith, Kirstyn Smith, Seth Wood; twelve great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; extended family members; dearest friends, William and Loretta Wilson. He will be missed, but never forgotten. Semper Fidelis.
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