Robert Gerald Smith

Obituary of Robert Smith Dr. R. Jerry Smith, 70, of Leesburg, Florida passed away December 31, 2016. Born in Orlando, Florida on March 10, 1946 to Woodrow M. and Lula Cross Smith, Dr. Smith was a native Floridian and attended public schools in west Orange County. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Georgia Southern University in 1968 and his Masters in Education from Rollins College in Winter Park, FL in 1972. He taught in the Lake County public school system in various capacities from 1968 to 1978 and then moved to Lake-Sumter Community College, now Lake-Sumter State College from 1978 to 1996. During this time he served the college as VP Institutional Advancement and Student Services, Dean of Educational Services, Executive Director LSCC Foundation, Inc., Associate Dean of Extended Studies and Director of Admissions/Records/Recruitment. Additionally, he continued his education completing a Specialist in Education Degree from Florida Atlantic University in 1985 and Doctor of Education from the University of Central Florida in 1989. In 1996, Dr. Smith was elected the Superintendent of the Lake County School District where he served until his retirement in 2001. He had a love for education and continued to work with school districts and their curriculum until his death. Dr. Smith's faith and family defined him as a person. A dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church in Tavares, he served the church and its members faithfully for many years. He is survived by his wife Patricia, whom he married September 8, 1967; son Christopher and his wife Sonjas Smith and their sons Aidan and Gavin; brother Stan and wife Katie Smith; brother Doug and wife Diana Smith; sister Jan and husband Don Trawick; sister Carol and husband Denny Swain; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and other extended family. He was preceded in death by a brother and sister in law, Bill and Deloris Smith. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday January 7, 2017 beginning at 2 PM at the First United Methodist Church of Tavares, 600 W. Ianthe St., Tavares, FL 32778 with Pastor Mike Briggs presiding. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Children's Ministry of First United Methodist Church of Tavares.

Robert Gerald Smith

March 10, 1946 - December 31, 2016