Russell Allen Smith passed away unexpectedly on February 17, 2026, at the age of 68. Born on June 27, 1957, in Newton, NJ, Russell was cherished by all who knew him. He was a brave and devoted man, known for his humor and quick wit.

Russell married his high school sweetheart, Joan, in 1974. Together, they celebrated their Golden 50th Wedding Anniversary in June 2025. He took pride in being a husband and loved taking his "Bride" out to lunch. He and his only daughter, Courtney, enjoyed early morning breakfasts together. He proudly wore the title of "Poppa" and played a vital role in his grandchildren's lives. He spent his days fishing on his boat in Chincoteague, reading James Patterson books on the beach and always wanted his picture taken to show everyone that he "looked good". He was an avid NY Giants fan, loved a cold drink after work and was always in the mood for a funny movie.

Following in his father's footsteps, his career in law enforcement began in 1981, in Sparta, NJ. He earned his promotion to Sergeant on January 2, 1996 and again to Lieutenant before his retirement, in 2006. Throughout his career, he took great joy in teaching others and during his time on the police force, he taught D.A.R.E programs to the youth of Sparta. He was also awarded for his efforts in Mothers Against Drunk Driving DWI enforcement.

Russell was passionate about getting out of NJ and built his dream retirement home in Palm Coast, FL. He spent his retirement, beginning in 2006, "Livin' the Dream" with his wife Joan and his dog Lexi. He spent his retirement laughing at loved ones while they shoveled their way through snow storms, because "you can't shovel sunshine", while he planned his next annual Key West trip. He could not fathom going north for a vacation once residing in the Sunshine State and required no less than two po' boys from Caroline's Cafe once he was in the Keys.

Russell is survived by his loving wife, Joan (Reynolds) Smith; his daughter Courtney (Smith) Brady and her husband John; his granddaughter Kaylee Smith and her fiancé Jason; his granddaughter Alyssa Carpenella and her husband Paul; his granddaughter Brielle Brady and his grandson Justin Brady; his brother Ronald Smith.

Russell is predeceased by his father, Russell Gordon Smith; his mother Elizabeth Smith; and his brother Randall Smith.

The care of Russell Smith is under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Daytona, 1423 Bellevue Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, 386-267-1100.

A Visitation will take place at Lohman Funeral Home Daytona on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026, from 11 AM to 12 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at 12 PM in the Lohman Funeral Home Daytona Chapel. Burial will immediately follow at Daytona Memorial Park, 1425 Bellevue Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114.