Robert Cleve Smith, Jr., beloved father, friend, brother and son, age 86, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, in Cumming, GA, his children at his side. He was born July 2, 1939, Hall County, GA, to the late Robert Cleveland Smith (Cleve) and Ruby Grace Parks Smith of Gainesville GA.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harrison Smith and Tom Smith, sister Mamie Anne Smith Johnson and the mother of his children; his ex-wife, Carolyn Bumgardner. He is survived by his sister Ruby Clara Smith Green; son Robert Smith III (Yvonne) of MN, daughters Zoe Smith (Michael Wallace) and Jo Lynn Davis (Phillip Wiley) of MI; grandchildren, Logan Davis (Rushorn), Colton Davis (Cortney), Hayley Smith-Roche ( Jeremy), Olivia Smith and 5 great grandchildren.

Bob was proud of his country and his 20 years of service in the US Air Force having served in both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts and awarded multiple decorations, which included 6 separate campaign ribbons. He was stationed all over the world, from Asia to Europe. He retired from USAF active-duty service, after his second tour at Empire Air Force Station, Empire, MI, on 1 June 1977 but, remained in reserve status through 30 May 1987.

Bob was also a 10-year veteran of the Leelanau County Sheriff’s department of Leelanau County MI where he served right after his military career. He then worked as head of security for corporations in NC and GA.

Bob was a kind, nurturing person who dearly loved his family, his many friends and his country. He was always willing to help anyone in need and was a caring and thoughtful father, friend, co-worker and neighbor. He grew roses, fed the birds, loved all kinds of music and saved injured turtles. Words cannot express how much he will be missed, so very much.

Bob did not want a service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Empire, MI museum where he has a paver at the Empire Air Force Station memorial.