Ronald V. Smith

Ronald V. Smith died on September 1, 2025. He was the son of Robert D. Smith and Clista Payne Smith of Portland, Tennessee, both of whom preceded him in death. 

He is survived by his wife, Valerie; two children, Steven (Patricia) of West Orange, NJ, and Andrea of Sherman Oaks, California; two brothers, Dr. Alphonso Smith of Vineland, NJ, and Victor Larry (Patricia) Smith of Missouri City, TX. Ron also had two grandchildren, Christopher and Matthew, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings Robert Smi_th, Jr., Gwendolyn Smith, and Talmadge Smith. 

Ron grew up in Portland, Tennessee. His father impressed upon him the importance of getting a good education, so Ron seriously pursued his higher education, first at Tennessee State University in Nashville, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in chemistry. He later left Tennessee and received a master's degree in chemistry from Iowa State University. Subsequently, he moved to New York state and worked for the Corning Glass Company, which led to meeting his wife, Valerie, and later the birth of their first child, Steven. The family relocated to New Jersey, where their second child, Andrea, was born. He attended Rutgers University School of Law, where he obtained   Juris Doctor degree. For many years, he worked as a Deputy Attorney General for the state of New Jersey. 

Always fascinated with the justice system, Ron kept up with current and past legal proceedings long after he retired. He loved nothing more than analyzing them, engaging in lively discussions, and sharing his views on cases, even occasionally visiting the courthouse to review case files. 

A man of great faith, Ron was devoted to his church and served as a deacon and a member of the finance committee. He delighted in singin.g in the choir and spending time with his church family. He also enjoyed gardening and caring for a crop of tomatoes growing outside on the patio. 

Most of all, Ron was a family man. He loved his family and took great pride in them. He will be missed. 

Funeral service will be 11am Friday, September 12, 2025 at Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church, 124 Witherspoon St., Princeton, NJ 08542.  Calling hours will be 9am until the time of service. Interment will be 11am, Saturday 13, 2025 at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY.

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