Dr. Richard Elbert Smith, 89, of Troutville, died peacefully at his home on March 25, 2024 after a brief illness. He was preceded in death by his precious wife, Pat, to whom he was completely devoted.
He was born on March 22, 1935 in Peekskill, N.Y., to Ralph and Thelma Abbott Smith. The family relocated to Virginia the following year.
Richard was a graduate of Troutville High School and Bluefield College, and received his Bachelor of Science degree from Roanoke College in 1957. Following graduation he taught school in the Roanoke Valley and Clifton Forge where he also coached tennis and football.
In 1961 he went on to attend Medical College of Virginia Dental School while working to support his growing family. After graduation in 1965, he joined his first practice in Hot Springs then later established his own practice in Troutville. He also served as the professor of Dental Hygiene and Assisting at Virginia Western Community College.
After retiring from his practice, he volunteered countless hours at free dental clinics in Roanoke and Fincastle. He also participated multiple dental mission trips to Jamaica, El Salvador and Honduras.
Richard and Pat were members of Shenandoah Baptist Church where he served as Elder and chaired the Missions Committee. In his later years, Richard treasured his Bible study group there and continued to participate in until no longer able.
He is survived by his brothers, Ronnie and wife, Joyce of Troutville, and Travis and wife, Cheryl of Helena, Mont. He is also survived by brother-in-law, Richard and wife, Harriet Rader of Troutville. Also surviving are his children, Steve and wife, Debbie, Stephanie and husband, Chet Butler, Suzanne and husband, Peter Farrell, and Kevin. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, Zachary Smith, Logan Smith, Sarah (Jake) Stump, Emily (Kendrick) Hochstetler, Will Butler, Hannah (Ryan) Maruyama, Nathan Shattuck, Abby Shattuck, and Beth (Omar) Carreno. Also surviving are six great-grandchildren, and several nieces, and nephews. He will be missed by all. We take comfort in knowing that he is in Heaven praising the Lord his God and reunited with his beloved “Patsy.”
Visitation was on Saturday, March 30 at Shenandoah Baptist Church in Roanoke between 12 and 2 p.m. with the funeral immediately following. A private burial followed in Botetourt County.
Memorial contributions may be made in his honor to Shenandoah Baptist Church’s Short-Term Missions or the Camp Eagle scholarship fund. Arrangements were sby Oakey’s East Chapel, 540-977-3909.
