Robert Bryan Smith, born on May 8, 1929, in Center, Texas, passed away at his residence in Kilgore on December 16, 2025. Robert led a life marked by dedication to family, community, and his chosen career paths that exemplified his talents and work ethic.

A graduate of Center High School, Robert further pursued his education at the University of North Texas. His commitment to his alma mater continued throughout his life, as he remained an active member of the UNT Alumni Association.

Robert was known for his extensive contributions to his community and his family-owned businesses. He managed the family-owned drive-in theater in Center, Texas, before joining Smith Lumber Company in Kilgore in 1962, where he served as vice president. Later, he founded Smith Cabinets and Smith Construction, utilizing his expertise in cabinet design and construction to establish a reputation for excellence as a home builder.

His community involvement was also noteworthy. Robert was a Life Member of the Kilgore Historical Preservation Foundation and a charter member of the Texas Shakespeare Festival Foundation. In earlier years, he was active in the Lions Club and Jaycees. He played a significant role at St. Luke's Methodist Church, where he served not only as an active member but also on the Board of Trustees, as well as holding positions of president and vice president for the McDavid McKinley Monday Sunday School Class.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Robert found joy in various hobbies. He had an affinity for gardening, cooking, traveling, fishing and hunting.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Joan Still Smith of Kilgore; his sons, Mike Smith and his wife Cathy; Kevin Smith; his daughter, Kelly Smith Swanson and her husband Alan; and his cherished grandsons, Eric Smith and his wife Jennifer; Robert Smith and his wife Kelly; and +Jared Smith and his wife Lauren. Robert leaves behind great grandsons, Ashton Smith, Fisher Smith, Harrison Smith, Finn Smith, Kolston Smith, Kellen Smith and his great granddaughter, Elodie Smith; Joan’s sons Still Collum and Shad Collum, and sister-in-law Susan Still Duncan and her husband Jack.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Bryan Smith, Sr. and Ila Davis Smith, his son Mitch Smith, and his grandson Michael Smith.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at St. Luke's Methodist Church, located at 401 East Main Street, Kilgore, TX 75662, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM with Rev. Kelly Inman officiating. Burial will follow at Lakeview Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Robert Bryan Smith will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his unwavering dedication to his family and community. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the memories he created.