Daniel Russell “Russ” Smith Jr.

Daniel Russell “Russ” Smith Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, partner, friend and lifelong caretaker of both people and animals, passed away surrounded by those who loved him.

Russ was born on February 6, 1938, in Attleboro, Massachusetts, to the late Daniel Russell Smith Sr. and Margaret (Bridge) Smith. He grew up in the North Attleboro area, where he attended high school. He then went to Norwich in Vermont for college, before joining the United States Army Reserve in 1960.

Russ went on to enjoy a long and fulfilling career with Factory Mutual as an industrial appraiser. His work took him around the country and across the world, fueling a lifelong love of travel. Of all the places he visited, Ireland held a particularly special place in his heart—so special that he returned eight times. It was perhaps fitting for a man whose Irish eyes always seemed to be smiling.

Russ married the love of his life, Norma K. (Bishop) Smith, and together they shared 50 years of marriage before her passing in 2010. They built a beautiful life together and raised their two beloved children, Timothy and Stacy. Following retirement, Russ and Norma moved to Ormond Beach, Florida, where they enjoyed the next chapter of their life together.

To say Russ never met a stranger would be an understatement. He had a genuine interest in people and an extraordinary ability to turn acquaintances into friends. More importantly, he knew how to keep those friendships. Many of the people Russ called friends had been part of his life not simply for years, but for decades.

He was also the kind of friend everyone hopes to have. Whether someone needed their mail picked up, an animal fed, a favor handled or simply someone they could count on, Russ was there. Helping others was never an obligation to him; it was simply who he was.

Following Norma’s passing, Russ was fortunate to find love and companionship again with Patsy Ramie. For the last 15 years of his life, Russ and Patsy shared countless adventures and happy memories. They loved cruising, dining out, spending time with their dog, Max and simply enjoying life together. Just as importantly, Patsy’s family became Russ’s family. Her children, April, Diana and Andy, held a special place in his heart.

Russ was also an enthusiastic and devoted “dog grandpa.” The four-legged members of his family were never an afterthought—they were family, too, and he loved them accordingly.

Russ is survived by his daughter, Stacy, her partner, Scott Grenier, and their dog, Rosie; his son, Timothy, and daughter-in-law, Peggy; his beloved granddaughter, Jocelyn; and granddogs King and Tito.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Norma; his parents, Daniel and Margaret; and several much-loved granddogs who undoubtedly were waiting to greet him.

Russ’s family extends a very special thank you to his dear friends, who’s extraordinary friendship, love, care and support, particularly during his final days meant so much to him and his family. Their kindness meant more than words can adequately express.

Russ lived a full life—a life filled with family, friendships, travel, laughter, dogs, good meals, a Guinness or two and countless acts of kindness. He saw much of the world, but what mattered most to him were the people waiting for him when he came home.

Those fortunate enough to have known Russ will remember his smile, his loyalty, his stories, his generosity and his remarkable ability to make people feel like they belonged.

And somewhere, we like to think those Irish eyes are still smiling.

A memorial service will be held at Lohman Funeral Home (733 W. Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL 32174) on Friday, October 2 at 3pm. Celebration of life to follow at Halifax Plantation Golf Club at 4:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Halifax Humane Society in honor of Russ’s lifelong love of animals and the many beloved dogs who brought him so much joy throughout his life. Here is the link to make a donation: https://www.halifaxhumanesociety.org/donate-now/