Richard Joseph Smith
April 23, 1937 – July 31, 2025
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Richard Joseph Smith, 88, of Queen Creek, Arizona, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, with his loving family by his side. He was born on April 23, 1937, in Waterbury, Connecticut. Richard was the son of the late Howard and Eleanore Smith of Wolcott, Connecticut. He proudly served his country for 11 years in both the United States. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force. Following his military service, Richard continued his commitment to excellence with a 20-year career at Xerox Corporation.
Richard is survived by his devoted wife, of 62 years, Hannelore C. Smith; his son, Kevin (Jen) Smith; sisters, Suzanne Schmeer and Diane Radovich; brother, Joseph Smith; and his beloved granddaughter, Sabrina M. Tanabe-Smith.
A graveside service, with military honors, will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix, Arizona, 85024. A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at a later date, at Countryside Senior Living in Queen Creek, AZ.
After having lived most of his life in Connecticut, Richard moved to Arizona in 2023 to be near his son and daughter-in-law. Richard will be remembered for his love for Christ, and his steadfast dedication to, and deep love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of service, loyalty, gentleness and kindness that will live on in those who knew and loved him.
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Maureen Hayes-Smith says: So saddened to hear of Richard’s passing. I was lucky to have seen him each day while in Southington. My late husband, Joseph Smith, was always happy to hear we had spoken and I was happy to relay messages from both. I have a wonderful picture, taken at the lake in Wolcott, of Richard and Joe. They both had big smiles on their faces. Cousins together again, watching over us. May the love of family and friends bring you comfort and support at this time and your faith give you hope. My love to all the family.
Maureen Hayes-Smith
So saddened to hear of Richard’s passing. I was lucky to have seen him each day while in Southington. My late husband, Joseph Smith, was always happy to hear we had spoken and I was happy to relay messages from both. I have a wonderful picture, taken at the lake in Wolcott, of Richard and Joe. They both had big smiles on their faces. Cousins together again, watching over us. May the love of family and friends bring you comfort and support at this time and your faith give you hope. My love to all the family.