Robert J. Smith

Robert J. Smith, 87, of Payne, passed away Tuesday, March 8, 2011 at Van Wert Hospital.

Robert was born in Highland Township, Defiance County on September 27, 1923, a son of the late Porte & Kathryn (Baum) Smith.

He served in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Leyte during World War II and also served during the Korean War.  He held a B.S. in Agriculture and a Masters of Education from Ohio State University. He was a member of Saint Paul United Methodist Church, Payne; 50 year member & past Master of Flatrock Masonic Lodge; 50 year member &  past Patron of the Eastern Star; 50 year member of  the Scottish Rite 30 year member of Mizpah Shriners; member of American Legion Post #297; 30 year member  Payne EMS Fire Dept. He served on numerous health committees and was a former Paulding County Veterans Commissioner.  He enjoyed coaching football & little league baseball. He was a Vocational Agriculture teacher at Payne & Wayne Trace Schools.  

On Dec. 26, 1954, he married Leah Williamson.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Leah; daughter, Marilyn (Roger) Johnson of Archbold; son, Terry (Vada) of Payne; sister, Norma (James) Stewart of Mill Creek, WA; brother, William of Payne; 4 grandchildren & 2 great grandchildren. His brother, Richard preceded him in death.

His funeral service is at Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 312 S. Main, Payne, at 2 pm on Saturday, March 12th,  with viewing one hour prior. Rev. Julia Ronngren will officiate.

Viewing is also Friday, 4 to 8 pm with Masonic rites at 8 pm at Dooley Funeral Home, 5761 SR 500, Payne.

Burial is in Lehman Cemetery.

Memorials are to the church or Payne EMS.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com