Robert R. "Smitty" Smith, 86, of Darlington, MD, died on Thursday, July 14, 2022 at the Senator Bob Hooper Hospice House surrounded by his loving family. Robert was born to his late parents, Ralph T. and Carrie (Price) Smith. He was married to his sweetheart, Betsy (Booker) Smith for 60 years this past June.

Robert was a lifelong resident of Harford County. He graduated from the former Central Consolidated School in 1954. Robert continued the long standing tradition of family military service, having proudly served in the US Army during the Korean War. After returning to civilian life, he worked for a short time making repairs to the Conowingo Dam. Following their marriage, Robert and Betsy settled in Darlington and were lifelong members of St. James UAME Church.

Robert had many great accomplishments in life, one of them being the first African American hired by the Harford County Sheriff's Office. He was appointed to the department on June 1, 1964. He proudly served the citizens of Harford County for 30 years, attaining the rank of Captain. After retirement, his dedication to the citizens of Harford County continued through the Harford County Sheriff's Office Christmas Drive, a program that he and Betsy were very active with. A former colleague said this about Robert, "Smitty's life is about community and not about self."

In addition to his beloved Betsy, Robert is survived by two children, Craig Lamar (Anita) Smith, of Jacobus, PA and Carla Lynette Smith, of Darlington, MD. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Maya Harris, of Darlington, MD, Emmanuel Gilkey and Elijah Smith, of St. Louis, MO, and Akaya Byers-Tobins, of Jacobus, PA. His twin brother, Roland (Adelaide) Smith of Darlington, MD and a brother-in-law James Carey of Indian Head, MD also survive Robert.

In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his siblings; Amy Lucille Wills, Carrie Cevis, Lena Johnson, Marian Carey, Earl Smith, Mahlon Smith, John Smith and Ralph T. Smith.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial contributions be made to St. James UAME Church at the above address.