Richard H. "Smitty" Smith
1951 - 2016
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Linda/Butch Bartone - Deep River, CT - friend posted a condolence
Sunday, January 7, 2018
Our dear friend , a man who always thought of so many others. He found time for all of us. His smile lit up your day. Dick always had the attitude any thing is possible! He loved our town of Deep River!! He made sure he went the extra mile to do what ever he could to make our town prosper. Perhaps we should state he was a perfectionist!! There were so many individual points we could list in regards to this wonderful man ideas. Dick had a vision of what our town should look like and how it should be run.Dick found the time to help so many, many of the kindness and concern in helping others. Some of us who needed his help he was there.Dick was loving and caring.I really think Dick didn't realize how much He meant to all of us. In my prayers I hope you're resting and ask God to watch over your wonderful family and to thank him for being a friend! Time passes to quickly and almost two years we heard of Dicks passing. May God look over your family and in our hearts we carry your memory. We miss you!
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Angie Marion Kingston - Haddam, CT posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Dear Christine, James, Rich and Family,
I cannot tell you how much Dick will be missed by so many long time Deep River residents and transplants like me. I remember him so fondly. I remember his smile, his love for his family and his community. I remember enjoying music with him. He had such a warm smile. He could smile that smile and any sadness you had, would disappear. He was a gentleman. a kind man, an exceptional leader, and a sincere and humble man. He did not look for significance, but to love and help others. I like to say that he created a slice of Norman Rockwell's small town paintings in real life. He helped this Kansas girl fall in love with Deep River; the town, the elementary school, the people, all of it! I will miss his warm smile. However, I know he will be smiling down with that bright smile. I am so very sorry for your loss.
God Bless,
Angie, Sophie, Graham, Chris and Gia
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Arlene and John Macmillan - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Monday, April 4, 2016
Smitty was always working for our town. When I was Chairman of the Library Board, during the library expansion, I often had questions for him. I had to drive all over town to find him working with the highway crew, to get the answers. I told him I thought he would be First Selectman for forty years. I wish that had come true. He is sorely missed by all.
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Rich & Peggie Sypher - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Monday, April 4, 2016
To Christine and family, and Rich and family. Wishing you all strength, on the difficult days that you are facing in the months to come. May memories of your Dad, comfort you and fill your hearts with love.
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Dave Hall - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Friday, April 1, 2016
I grew up in Westbrook, moved to Deep River in 1976, have been here ever since. Linda and I reared our two kids here. That I am lucky, happy and proud to live here is a testament to Dick Smith's vision and industry and especially to his enormous decency. He put his heart and soul into the creation of what has been for years now a vibrant, dynamic human community. His indomitable spirit and his persuasive joy moved us to become more than we thought we could be and more than we would have been had he not been there pushing, working and driving, smiling though it all. Smitty cared for us, all of us, and he helped us believe in where we live, work and play not merely as a small town but as an ideal that we the living should now dedicate ourselves to preserve: in our sudden grief we have Deep River, all that it meant to him and all that it means to us, as his legacy, a precious bequest that may serve to heal our broken hearts.
Dick Smith was my friend. I will miss him.
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Anthony Bartone & Linda Bartone Bartone Sr. - Deep River, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Dear Christine My husband and I send our prayers and deepest sympathy to you and your family at this most difficult time. Christine even though we have never met your Dad seemed part of our small family. He always had time for everyone!! When we moved to Deep River 28 years ago Deep River ( our little town certainly did not look like it does today. With the Love of a special Man and his loving family who gave him the support and understanding he was certain to follow his dreams! The end result OUR BEAUTIFUL TOWN OF DEEP RIVER! Many times we would be driving through town we would always have Dick in our thoughts, Where would we find Dick ? In with the town crew building side walks, directing traffic, the list goes on and on as you already know! When we would see him always a great smile ,or a hand wave, or sometimes put the car window down to say Hi! Dick ! We have a short story to share with you. Many years ago during the Christmas Holiday Season. We turned into our driveway to find a police car, lights flashing and Dick ringing the door bell. We jumped out of our car to see what was happening. Quite a scare! Dick laughing at us replied (Just stopped by to wish you a Merry Christmas !!! That Christmas was very special for! Christen we loved your Dad with all our hearts. Your Dad will be with you always. If in time little funny things happen do not question just know it's your Dad. Watching over you and his loving family. Fondly Butch and Linda Bartone
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Sam Sampson - Ruskin,Fl. / Westbrook,Ct posted a condolence
Thursday, March 31, 2016
To all of Smitty's family,
Prior to the last 8 years, I grew up and lived in Deep River since 1945 and got to know a lot of former selectpersons ! I was a charter member of the P&Z comm. and am an ex. D.R. fireman and got to know Dick in his early years in office.I will remember him as a very caring person and one who usually got the job done-whatever it was. It will be tough to replace him with the like !
Sincere condolances, Howard (Sam) Sampson
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Charles Baldoni - Norwich, CT posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
My Condolences to the Smith family in their difficult time, I worked with Dick for a couple of years at Uarco and thought of him as an outstanding person, one who would help out anyone at the drop of a hat, he was once categorized by one of his co-workers as "very civic minded"
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Victoria Sanseverino - Deep River, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
We will miss you, Dick Smith. You were a man of huge and gregarious spirit. A man who did it all and helped so many. A man who continuously gave so much of himself. A true Captain.
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MaryAnne Lebert - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
My deepest and sincere sympathy to all family, friends and our great town of Deep River.
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A friend posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Although we have not been long time residents of Deep River, it has been an honor to enjoy the fruits of Dick's many labors- the improved look of a old sweet town by way of grants, running the street sweeper, plowing the streets and supervising young people who were working with the town. It has been so refreshing in a time when politics destroy government, his legacy should be for others to work to follow his style and attitude- be warm, considerate and caring with everyone in town. BUT, above all- work hard to achieve it. He will be sorely missed.
Lenore Grunko
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Bill & Cindy lebert - deep river, CT posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
We are so sorry for your loss, May the love from all who knew Dick carry you through these
tough times. Deep River will never have a more
caring person who did so much for us.
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Juli Lowrey posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
So Sorry for the loss of a wonderful human being. Have some great memories of years past. Rest in peace friend. xo
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Audrey Fitting - North Branford, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
I met Dick Smith just recently twice, which was not nearly enough. From what I saw and heard last night, I wish I was related. A handsome man, alive, and one who was not only about work, but family first. His entire family has lost a pillar, and anchor of the family and the community. I met his lovely sister, and recently I was in the company of his beautiful daughter, and her family. I knew Christine's husband James since he was a small child, today a fine responsible man I call "son". I fixated on the beautiful video that told a beautiful story about Dick Smith, and his life. Last night I felt as though I knew them all. Deep River and the community is going to miss their First Selectman and so much more. A role model to learn from. God Bless all of you. Audrey Fitting.
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Christopher Cope - Chester - Friend posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
I've known Smitty for the past 20 years. He was truly an inspiration and role model for most that had the pleasure to know him. Smitty was an intelligent and generous man who devoted his life to helping others. I was fortunate enough to work with Smitty for five years and they were truly the best years of my career. I learned a lot from him and will pay it forward. Thanks Smitty for all you've done for your community. You will truly be missed. My condolences to the family and his extended family at Deep River town hall.
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mike venuti - killingworth, CT posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
The Venuti family had the absolute honor to build a ball field in deep river and get to know your 1st selectmen over the past year, what a great man, very caring, so unselfish, a real "john wayne" in todays world of excuse makers Dick rolled up his sleeves and went to work, so sorry for everyone's loss, the venuti family
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ED & ANNETTE PIERPONT - DEEP RIVER, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
THIS WAS A GOOD PERSON AND A FINE LEADER FOR THE TOWN OF DEEP RIVER.
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Virginia Zawoy - Clinton, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
My heartfelt condolences to the Dick Smith family. I had the pleasure of working with him on the 9Town Transit Board for many years and enjoyed his company and wit. If he could not make one of our meetings, it was because of something that needed to be done in Deep River. That was Dick.xxX2Eu2
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Bruce Bradway - Stafford Springs, CT - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
I have never met a man that could "do it all" until I met Dick in 2008 for the first time. From The first selectman, Police, Hwy Dept. Plow snow, operate loaders. Etc. He could do it all, and did do it all. A truly remarkable man indeed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
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Shaun McNally - Jakarta - Friend posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
I want to extend my deepest sympathy for Richard's passing. Many years ago I moved to Deep River. It was a special place, made so by people like Smitty. A former state rep, Richard welcomed me to the Democratic Town Committee and supported me loyally during my run for Congress in 2004. Although I have primarily lived overseas since 2005, I have followed him in Deep River news, from places like Iraq and Afghanistan, and was pleased that the voters understood what a great leader they had...and rewarded him with reelection. More important....on those times I returned to Deep River to spend time with my daughter...we would run into Richard at Simons...and he always remembered us, asked about things, was thoughtful and generous with his time. I now spend my life mentoring elected officials on good governance and leadership. Richard Smith embodied the kind of steady, quiet, effective leadership we need more of in the world. Deep River was lucky for his leadership. We were all enriched by his friendship. We shall miss him. From Jakarta, Indonesia....
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Katherine Hauswirth - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
We are so very sorry for your loss. Dick always had a smile for each one of us and did such a good job with making Deep River a great place to live. It was so evident that he really cared about people and about his town. He will be missed.
-The Hauswirths (Kathy, Tom, and Gavin)
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Ann fleming - Essex, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
To Chris Richie and family so sorry for your. Loss he was wonderful man we. Will miss a lot around. Deep. River Ann. And pat. Fleming
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Dee Francis - Old Saybrook, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
Smitty and my late husband Eddie Francis were great friends. I loved hearing all the stories he would tell me about their time together. This is a great loss. My deepest condolences to the family, his friends and the residents of Deep River
Dee Francis
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Michael & Kathleen Wayne - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
A great void has been created in the town of Deep River with the passing of Smitty, a man who`s kindness and concern for the people and our small community that he served with distinction for over 40 years. I worked with him on a machine at Uarco in the seventy`s where we first became good friends which continued until his passing on good Friday. He worked 2 jobs all these years, first as a constable which he continued as a police officer and our first Selectman. Smitty worked tirelessly at both. He loved Deep River and all it`s people, was always available to help anyone any time night or day. My wife and I loved him like a brother. We will miss him sorely but we will NEVER forget him.
We would like to see the new recreation area at Plattwood park be named in his honor the Richard H. Smith Ballfield or Recreation Park. May you rest in peace for all eternity.
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Alan Aronow - Haddam, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
Condolences to the Smith Family, his town hall colleagues, and the people of Deep River. Richard Smith was a most unusual individual. Not only did Richard bring out the best in people but his connection to the residents of Deep River, forged over decades of hands-on public service, was truly marvelous to behold. Richard cared not just about his own town but the impact of events on towns throughout the region. I will always be grateful to First Selectman Smith for his assistance to our group, Friends of the CT River, in helping persuade CTDOT to stop promoting the use of the Valley Railroad route as a freight rail corridor. He recognized that freight trains would endanger the safety and quality of life of residents throughout the Lower CT River Valley Region and was willing to speak out. Richard was a man of great integrity, vision, and energy. He will be sorely missed.
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Paul Mackenzie - Friend posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
To Dicks family, Words cannot describe the feeling of comfort and security I and many others have had under the leadership of Dick. His devotion was unmatched. There is a great emptiness in my heart that he is no longer with us.
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Maureen/Matthew Cusack - Groton, VT posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
Dear Chrisey , Richy, and families,
We were so very sorry to hear about your dad. He was a great man, and Deep River will never be quite the same...
With Deepest Sympathy,
Matt and Maureen Cusack
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Maureen/Matt Cusack - Groton, VT posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
Dear Chrissy, Richy and family,
We were so very sorry to hear about your dad. He was a great man, and Deep River will never be quite the same...
With deepest sympathy.
Matt and Maureen Cusack
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Flo Zaremba - Friend posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
Chrissy, Richy, and family, My heart goes out to all of you at this most difficult time. There are no words to make this better. I hope that the kind words and heartfelt messages give you peace and let you know how much we all care. Dick will truly be missed by all! He brought this town from "SCRUFFY to PROUD", The Lily of the Valley! Dick was the heart of Deep River. He has made many accomplishments through his hard work and dedication! He will forever be missed and a tough act to follow!
With heartfelt sympathy,
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Joanne Bombardier - Chester, CT posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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Paul Mackenzie - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Monday, March 28, 2016
Very sad for all to lose such a man in our community. A leader who has accomplished so much, for so many years says it all about the man.
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Lynn Stevens - Palm Springs, RI - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
So sorry to hear of Dick's passing. He is with Carter now and God Bless Him.
Fondly, Lynn
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Carole Otto - Deep River, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
My heart is heavy. My sincerest sympathies are with Dick's family with this sudden loss. I have lived in Deep River for 30 years and have been so impressed with Dick's dedication to our town. He worked endless hours in endless ways to help our town improve and stay up to date. He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. I will miss him.
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Frederick Becker - Clinton, CT - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Sorry to hear of the loss of a fellow law enforcement constable. he will be sadly missed.
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Tracy Dickson - Deep River, CT - Neighbor posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
I am deeply saddened to hear of Smitty's death. He was an icon in our community, a giant in our little town. Nobody loved Deep River more than he did and that was evident in everything he did for all of us. I remember seeing him drive the street sweeper past my house on Hemlock last spring and it made me laugh. He had a hand in everything! As pained as we all are, I realize that he was also a father and grandfather, and no doubt your pain is deep. Let our community lift you up in your time of need. We are here for you! My sincerest condolences to all of you.
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Sam Spencer - Haddam, CT posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Shocked and saddened to hear of Dick's passing. He was a fair and wise man with common sense who would do any task that needed be done for his town, Deep River.
Gina and Jonathan at town hall always spoke highly of their friend and town leader.
The last time I spoke with Dick he had on a safety vest and was directing traffic.
Rest peacefully Mr. Smith.
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Linda Hall - Deep River, CT posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Words seem inadequate to describe what the loss of Deep River's first selectmen Dick Smith will have on our community, and to me personally.
Stories of Dick plowing roads, cleaning up work sites, attending countless meetings and answering endless questions are all attributes that will speak to his endless energy and uncompromising work ethic.
I will remember Dick best for the quiet things he did. The compassionate and caring man who behind the scene brought the opposing sides together. Dick truly loved this town and cared deeply for its people.
It was a privilege to work with Dick and honor to call him my friend.
My deepest sympathy is sent to his family.
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Donna Hyde - Essex, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Dear Chris and Rich - we were so saddened to learn of your Dad's passing. He was an amazing Dad and we know he will be missed.
The town was so lucky to have him as their 1st Selectman for so many years. The town grew under his leadership and he worked so well with getting businesses to come to Deep River.
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John Seibert - Yardley, PA - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers to Dick's children and grandchildren. The Town of Deep River has suffered a great loss.
John and Sandi Seibert
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Liz Hoadley - "Miss Liz' - Church Street - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Dear Chris, James, Madison, and Mia, My prayers and thoughts are with you at this most difficult time. Although I did not have many opportunities to spend time with your father/grandfather, any time I did he was always most kind and always had a smile. Know that I will be lifting you all in prayer at church today. May God surround you with His love and comfort and give you strength and courage as you go through these difficult days. May He bless you and keep you and set His angels watch over you and bring you. With deepest love and respect, Miss Liz
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John, Kathy, and Robert Lanouette, and Les & Holly Hollo - Deep River, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Our family knew Dick for over 25 years. Over that time he was always a great friend to our family, and to the Town of Deep River. We will all miss him dearly.
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Janice Liscinsky - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. Dick did so much for our town and will be deeply missed. It is still hard to believe he is gone and we will not see his smiling face as we go through town or driving down our street on patrol.
God bless and may you rest in peace.
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Tom Haser - Lebanon, PA - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Dick the memories i have will never fade. My thoughts and prayers to the family. Deep River has lost a true friend. RIP Dick. God has more plans for you.
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Tom Haser - Lebanon, PA - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Dick the memories i have will never fade. My thoughts and prayers to the family. Deep River has losg a true friend. RIP Dick. God has more plans for you.
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Steven l david - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Fait winds and following seas RIP you will be missed!
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Tom Haser - Lebanon, PA - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
My thoughts and prayers to the family. My memories of Dick will never leave me. Deep River has lost a true friend.
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Harriet Hanson - Chester, CT - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Sorry to hear about Dick. I used to work at Adams grocery store and Dick would come thru my line and we would talk about life as it is. He was a terrific person. He always had a smile for me whether he was in a good mood or not. I will miss him and his smile. So sorry for the loss of a great man.
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Patty Anderson - Deep River, CT - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
To the family, especially Richie and Chrissy: I was so sad to hear the news of your Dads passing and my heart felt condolences to you on this great loss. Your Dad was unique and one of a kind. He was special and I am certainly better off for knowing him. May God bless you through your time of grief and give you strength. I helped him on his very first campaign with Lisa and Annie and who knew his "reign" would span as long as it did! Obviously he went above and beyond for our town which is why we chose him over and over and over.
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Alan Miezejeski - Friend posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
I'm deeply saddened, last week Dick and I talked for more than half an hour. I admired his devotion to our home town and will miss him. We should dedicate and name the new ball field at platwood after him. It was one of his last accomplishments.
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Katherine Porter Southworth - Essex, CT - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Although I did not know Dick Smith well, I have heard so many wonderful things about how much he did for the community of Deep River over the course of many, many years. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. You are in our family's thoughts and prayers. Thank you for all you have done and thank you to his family for sharing him with the entire community. God Bless.
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linda gambardella - North Haven, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
You will be so dearly missed, I will always cherish our memories. Your smile and ever so kind heart. You did so much for your town. Nobody could ever replace your kindness you have all of us. I love you smitty!! I will always hold you dear to my heart! Xxo
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Holly Bell & BryanIngram - Deep River posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Chrissy, Richie, Girls....we are so sorry and saddened for your loss. Dick is irreplaceable and we feel your loss tremendously. You are in our thoughts at this terrible time.
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alan bogart - east haddam, CT - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the smith family for there loss of a great man.
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Cheryl A Atwood - Deep River, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Deep River, CT will always be a far better place because of First Selectman Richard H. "Smitty" Smith. His legacy will live on in all that he accomplished and all of the hearts that he touched. As we mourn his loss I hope we learn from his example! To his children and grandchildren my deepest condolences. Thank you for sharing him with an entire community, we are far better people for it... XO
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Chip Adams - West Hartford, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Shocked. It was the totality that Dick was, whether it was in town hall behind a desk, directing traffic, driving a plow or a street sweeper, Dick was the heart of Deep River. He leaves a legacy, he is too soon gone. My sympathies to the family.
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Patricia Martin - Westbrook, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
So sorry for your lost
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Marianne Bowes - Santa Barbara, CA - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
My heart broke when I heard that we lost Smitty, only fond memories of hanging so many years ago with Petey, n you kids, please know I'm thinking of you all, my heart is with you...Deep River really lost a great man...
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Linda Guarino - Deep River, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Where to start to explain what this man did for our community ...endless,a true leader ..., what some could only explain as a "John Wayne " of Deep River ... The most heart warming smile and true friend to all ! Thank you for being a friend I'm truly blessed you will be greatly missed and or town will never be the same without you but thank you for all you have given us !
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Justine Wojcik-Spadea - Deep River - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Dick, I will never forget how you helped me when I was locked out of my car with two small children by my side. You stopped because you thought I needed help and I sure did. You saved the day and you saved the town of Deep River. You always had a smile for everyone! Thank you for being a part of a wonderful town and devoting yourself to making it better. You will be missed by all. Xoxoxox to the family and friends you leave behind.
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Laura Hilton - Madison, CT posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
I am honored to have known you...
Prayers go out to his family and friends.
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Misty sullivan - Bumpass, VA - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Praying for your family during this difficult time! I moved away at 18 from Connecticut I am now 39. While I didn't know Smitty the way you do I have very fond memories as a child of his kindness and desire to serve. Thank you for sharing him with our community God Bless
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alan bogart - east haddam, CT - Acquaintance posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
We truly lost the best first selectman derp river has ever had, I've known dick since I was a young man growing up and will always remember him as a fair and compassionate man.he will be missed by many.rest in peace smitty.
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Nadine Morse - Ivoryton, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Words can not truly express our feelings when we lose a loved one. He will forever be in our hearts and his memories will be cherished by the community that he served! He was there throughout my whole life! From our family to yours, we send our condolences and sympathies!
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The Doyle family - Deep River, CT - Friend posted a condolence
Saturday, March 26, 2016
We knew "Smitty" for many ,many years. Always a kind word,always helpful. Always there for the people. Rest in peace.
Visitation
March 29, 2016
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Deep River Town Hall
174 Main Street
Deep River, CT
Funeral Mass
March 30, 2016
11:00 AM
Saint Joseph's Church
48 Middlesex Avenue
Chester, CT 06412
Burial
Wednesday March 30 2016
Saint Joseph's Cemetery
48 Middlesex Tpke
Chester, CT 06412
- 34 Main St | PO Box 105 | Centerbrook, CT | 06409 | (860) 767-8000
www.rwwfh1894@gmail.com