Robert L. ("Bob") Smith

Robert “Bob” L. Smith, 73, of Jersey Shore, passed away, Monday evening, August 17, 2020, at the Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. Born May 29, 1947 in Jersey Shore; he was the son of Harry L. and Frances M. (Poorman) Smith. Bob lived in Jersey Shore all of his life. Bob married the former Lois M (Willits), who survives him on August 23, 1997; they would have celebrated 23 years of marriage this Sunday.

Bob was a graduate of Jersey Shore Area High School and Penn State University where he majored in Business Administration. Upon graduation from college, he served six years in the United States Navy. Bob enjoyed many years of being a pitcher for fast pitch softball in his hometown as well as in the Navy where he was fortunate to be able to travel to all of the Caribbean islands to play ball.  Bob was stationed for 2 years in Bermuda where he also played ball. Bob was known to many as “Whip” due to his famous pitch called the “goofy “pitch. Following honorable discharge from the Navy he began his career in banking where he worked for 35 years.  Bob began as a teller and retired as the Bank Manager for Sovereign Bank (aka Commonwealth Bank) in the Jersey Shore office.

He was a past member of the Jersey Shore Lion’s Club and a life member of the Jersey Shore Elks.  Bob also served on the Civil Service Commission. Bob enjoyed chaperoning, along with his wife, AAA cruises and bus trips. Bob was a valued part-time employee of the Rearick Carpenter Funeral Home for many years and was a certified PA Crematory Operator. His hobbies include traveling, gardening, golfing and fishing. His favorite places to visit were Bermuda, Manasota Key, FL and Las Vegas.  Bob would like to be remembered as a friendly, kind and loving man, who loved his Savior Jesus Christ and believed in forgiveness.

Along with his wife, Lois, Bob is survived by a son, Michael (Becky) of State College; son Dan Zell, of Jersey Shore, daughter, Kim Zell (Susan), and daughter-in-law, Kathy Zell, of Jersey Shore; along with five grandchildren, Elizabeth, Dakota, Gaige, Mandy and Jennifer; four great grandchildren, Taylor, Alayna, Grace, and Gavin.  He is also survived by his brother, Donald Smith (Yvonne), of Jersey Shore and two nieces and two great nieces.  Bob will also be missed by his best fur buddy “Bear”.

A public visitation with a memorial service is being planned for a future date in the fall.  Family graveside services will be held in Jersey Shore cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the Jersey Shore Honor Guard.  

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