Richard Bryan Smith, 92, of Roanoke, VA, walked faithfully with God until he passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Dick was born to Margaret McCue Smith and Clyde Bryan Smith on March 19, 1931.  A proud native of Bluefield, WV, he was grateful to grow up at Christ Episcopal Church amidst his beloved McCue family - aunts, uncles, and 23 first cousins who loved and cared well for one another.  Dick was a 1949 graduate of Beaver High School where he played football, basketball and baseball.  He attended Bluefield College, graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in business administration and upon graduation was hired by C&P Telephone Co. (AT&T) where he was fortunate to enjoy a 36 year career until his retirement. Dick was always grateful for his many friendships throughout his career as he and his family relocated with his increasing responsibilities.  They lived in Richmond, Norfolk, and Washington, DC, before completing his career in Roanoke as Division Manager of C&P’s Western Division. 

Dick married his high school sweetheart, Jean Elizabeth​ Dunn in 1954, beginning 68 years of a rich life together. Dick was most proud of and grateful for Jean and his three daughters Nancy, Betsy, and Julia. He will be remembered as one who took his responsibilities seriously, starting as a paperboy at age 12​ and providing generously for his family throughout his lifetime.

Wherever they lived, they made their home in the Presbyterian Church. Dick served as an elder at numerous churches and was a faithful member at​ Second Presbyterian in Roanoke for more than ​30​ years. After his retirement, Dick volunteered with Meals on Wheels for 13 years and enjoyed the Kiwanis Club and later the Big Lick Breakfast Club meetings at The Roanoker.  Dick loved playing and watching sports throughout his life, particularly baseball in his youth.  As an adult, he enjoyed golf and tennis, actively playing until age 85. He was blessed by the many friends who played alongside him.

Dick is survived by his three daughters: Nancy Linn Smith Miller of Charlotte, NC;  Elizabeth “Betsy” McCue Smith Poole (Allan) of Durham, NC; and Julia Perkins Smith Blanchard (David) of Monterey, VA; seven grandchildren: Katherine Miller Mealor (A.J.); Taylor Miller; Ellie Poole Richmond (Jack); Sam Poole (Caitlin); Sarah Poole; Grace Blanchard and Mary Winters Blanchard; three great grandchildren: Bryan and Tucker Mealor and Will Richmond; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Dick was preceded in death by his sister Jean Felts and brother John Smith.

The family is grateful for friends and caregivers Annette Williams, Damika Joseph and Loretta Mason who enriched Dick’s life with their patience, excellence, and good humor. The family is thankful for loving neighbors and church friends, as well as the pastors of Second Presbyterian. And lastly, thanks to all passersby who waved or stopped to visit Dick as he greeted the world from the wall in front of his home. 

A service in celebration of the Resurrection and Dick’s life is planned for June 24, 11 a.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, 214 Mountain Ave., SW, Roanoke. Memorial gifts may be sent to Second Presbyterian Church at the above address.