Robert Jay Smith

Robert Jay Smith “Smitty” beloved husband, father and “Papou,” born September 28, 1947 passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026.

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, he and his siblings Linda and Janet were raised in Independence by his devoted parents, Francis and Frances Smith. He graduated from Van Horn High School before enlisting in the United States Army, where he trained as a helicopter pilot flying Hueys and Cobras and served with the Outlaw/Maverick, 175th Combat Helicopter Unit. Bob served with distinction for one year in Vietnam, where he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, and Silver and Bronze Stars. He continued his service in the Army National Guard, retiring honorably after 20 years as a dedicated veteran of the U.S. Army.

In civilian life, Bob built a successful career as an insurance agent, serving his clients with honesty and integrity. He was also deeply committed to serving his community, volunteering extensively with the Boy Scouts of America, the Optimist Club (where he served as President), and the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA). As a founding and life member of the VHPA, he later served as its President, Reunion Chairman and as a member of the investment committee, helping preserve the bonds of friendship formed in warfare.

Bob was also very involved with keeping his high school classmates connected. He organized quarterly luncheons and served on reunion committees to help renew old friendships.

Bob’s greatest commitment was to his family. He shared 52 years of marriage with his wife, Meta, with whom he shared many travel adventures, both near and far. Together, they raised two sons, Brian and Chris Smith. He attended every sporting event, music recital, and scouting activity with dedication and devotion.

To his five grandchildren, Lillian, Rallis, Charlie, Cora and Frances, he was simply Papou, the grandfather who laughed easily, and always had a camera in hand to capture their antics and smiles.

Bob’s hobbies included photography, politics and investing in the stock market. He followed current events closely, and enjoyed tracking investments. These passions kept him engaged, informed and always eager to learn something new.

A memorial will be held May 2, 2026. There will be a visitation at 10:00 a.m. and memorial service 11a.m. with military honors immediately following at Aldersgate Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Lee’s Summit, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the South Missouri Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association Scholarship Fund- College of the Ozarks(www.cofo.edu/Donate), Ronald McDonald House or to the Church of the Resurrection.

Robert Jay Smith flew through life with honor and landed it with grace. He will be forever remembered as our hero, husband, father, and friend-his light enduring in the lives he touched. Those who knew him will remember his gentle spirit, warmth and his love for life.