Robert W. Smith

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Robert W. Smith Jr., affectionately known as “Bobby,” age 63, who passed away peacefully at home on April 3, 2026.

Born on December 8, 1962, Bobby was the beloved son of Robert W. Smith Sr. and Stella A. (Spada) Smith. He graduated from Chippewa Valley High School in 1980 and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan University, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, Bobby later earned his Juris Doctor degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 2015.

Bobby dedicated much of his professional life to public service, beginning his career as a firefighter in 1986. Through hard work and determination, he rose through the ranks to become Fire Marshal, serving honorably until his retirement in 2011. Following his retirement from the fire service, he pursued his passion for helping others through the law. He devoted his days to handling estates, trusts, and wills at Smith Estate Planning Group, while also collaborating closely with colleagues at Boedecker Law.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Bobby was deeply committed to his community. In 2009, he was elected to serve as one of the members of the inaugural Macomb County Charter Commission. Continuing his leadership and dedication to public service, Bobby ran for and was elected to the Macomb County Board of Commissioners for District 12. He held several roles during his 10 years of service on the board, including four years as Board Chairman.

Bobby embraced life with energy and joy. Known for his ever-present smile and friendly nature, he had a remarkable way of connecting with others and seemed to know someone wherever he went. He was an enthusiastic fan of University of Michigan athletics and loved sharing that passion with those around him. He treasured any time that he spent on the water whether he was boating, tubing or water skiing with his family and friends. Bobby maintained a competitive spirit, especially on the basketball court, where he loved the intensity of the game and the camaraderie it brought.

Above all else, Bobby was a devoted family man. He was most proud of the family he raised with his loving wife of 17 years, Felisha, and found immense joy in supporting their sons, Troy and Devon, at their various sporting events. They created wonderful memories together traveling to the sunny beaches of Florida, often sharing those special times with close friends. They also enjoyed spending time at the family cottage in Lexington, where many of his lifelong friendships first started.

Bobby is lovingly survived by his mother, Stella Ann Smith, significant other, Nicki Bruneel of Chesterfield Township, children Troy Smith, Devon Smith and Sierra Blankenship, siblings Eric (Shannon) Smith of Macomb and Lisa (Joseph) Duncan of Clinton Township, nieces and nephews, Ella Smith, Violet Smith, Robert Smith, Nicolette (Drake) Davis and Daniella Cullen, great-niece and great-nephews, Leo Davis, Jase Davis, and Callie Davis.

He was predeceased by his father, former Clinton Township Police Chief Robert W. Smith Sr., and his beloved wife, Felisha E. Smith.

Bobby’s legacy of love, dedication, and service will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held Friday April 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Peter Catholic Church (95 Market Street Mount Clemens, MI 48043) with a luncheon immediately to follow at the Italian American Cultural Center (43843 Romeo Plank Road Clinton Township, MI 48038).