Obituary for Roger Erving Smith
Roger E. Smith
Age 57 of Delaware City
Passed away with his family by his side on Monday, August 29, 2022.
Roger Erving Smith, affectionately called Uncle Barry and chief was born to Daphne White & Bernard Smith in May of 1965. Born and raised in Manchester Jamaica West Indies; he was the eldest of five children. From a very young age he was known to be independent, ambitious and always found a way to conquer life challenges. Roger was a protective older brother, dependable son & grandson, brought up under the care of his maternal grandmother, Lucille.
Roger met the love of his life 39 years ago, Karen Campbell-Smith (Auntie Dean). Two years later they welcomed their first born, Garreth. Years later Roger welcomed his daughter Rackèll Smith, Son Fabian Smith and his youngest son Roger Smith Jr.
Roger spent over 36 years employed in the farming & agriculture industry. He did everything with passion; He sought out every opportunity for advancement so that he could provide the best life for his family and that he did. After the birth of his son Roger Junior, he relocated from the Parish of Clarendon to Saint Mary where he together with his beloved wife Karen formed a successful contracting company where they worked hand in hand for several years. Throughout the years they’ve employed many, and always sought ways to give back to those in need. In addition to his main source of income Roger was adept at plumbing, welding and generally your go-to handyman; he was truly a jack of all trades.
Over a decade ago Roger and his wife gave their daughter the opportunity to attend college in the US, this was not an easy task however they worked tirelessly to see her through to graduation. He did so not only financially, but spiritually and emotional as he was one who could speak on any topic, adding valuable insight, and providing sound advice. In everything he did or said he always puts God first and his sons looked up to him as the ultimate role model. He showed them how to value hard work, be respectful, and was always there to offer words of wisdom.
In 2016 Roger migrated to the United States to live with his daughter, wife & youngest son. Five years prior to his emigration up to 2019 Roger provided care and support to his wife who was at the time diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment. He did everything in his power, went above and beyond to be a supportive & loving husband and father. Roger began employment shortly after his arrival to the US as a Maintenance technician with Lebus Bakery Outlet, where he was well-loved and instantly formed a bond with his LeBus family. He loved his work and people he worked with so much that even after relocating to Delaware he still commuted the long way to King of Prussia Pennsylvania daily for work----Roger was a fiercely dedicated man.
During his leisure time Roger enjoyed cycling, listening to gospel music, Roots Rock Reggae, watching western movies, attending church service at St. Thomas where he was a member. He also enjoy working in his private workshop at home repairing and building new practical things. There are so many things in and around our house that has his trademark. He also would look forward to visit Jamaica each year where his beloved brother, confidant and forever right hand man Neville (Sylvester) was executing planned upgrade to the family home. His most recent visit was earlier this year when he went to add some extra touches to his gorgeous home he and Karen built over the years.
Roger was positive, uplifting, encouraging, a true family man who effortlessly fostered meaningful relationships with everyone he crossed path with; be it at his place of employment, riding the bus/train, at the farmers market, at Church, doctor’s office and within his circle of friends and family. Many family members & friends can attest to their countless lengthy conversations with Roger, he was a great conversationalist, a true people person, and very definition of a great father, devoted husband, son, sibling, grand father and friend.
Roger has accomplished so much in his 57 years. From the smiles he placed on many faces, to the hearts that he’s warmed; to the love that he gave to everyone he encountered, he always was a genuine fellow; thus his life was rich and full of blessings of which he would readily share. His goal was to spread good vibes and positive energy everywhere he went and he did accomplish that.
Roger is survived by his daughter Rackell Smith, sons Fabian Smith and Roger Smith Jr., grandchildren Gabrielle, Arianna, Taylon & Fabianna Smith. Mother Daphne White, sister Donna Marie Smith, brothers Sylvester White & Corlus Morrison, aunt, cousins, nieces, nephew and many dear friends.
During this difficult time Roger would say “Do not question God, everything He does is for a reason, God is good all the time, Mi Pencil it out, Yuh know seh…with a scratch of his head.”
Therefore you are all encouraged to remain positive and celebrate Roger‘s legacy and life as he did with a mission to spread love and joy.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life Funeral Service at African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, 6331 Lancaster Ave., Philadelphia, PA, on Thursday, September 15 at 11:00am. Friends may call at the church from 10:00am-11:00am.
Age 57 of Delaware City
Passed away with his family by his side on Monday, August 29, 2022.
Roger Erving Smith, affectionately called Uncle Barry and chief was born to Daphne White & Bernard Smith in May of 1965. Born and raised in Manchester Jamaica West Indies; he was the eldest of five children. From a very young age he was known to be independent, ambitious and always found a way to conquer life challenges. Roger was a protective older brother, dependable son & grandson, brought up under the care of his maternal grandmother, Lucille.
Roger met the love of his life 39 years ago, Karen Campbell-Smith (Auntie Dean). Two years later they welcomed their first born, Garreth. Years later Roger welcomed his daughter Rackèll Smith, Son Fabian Smith and his youngest son Roger Smith Jr.
Roger spent over 36 years employed in the farming & agriculture industry. He did everything with passion; He sought out every opportunity for advancement so that he could provide the best life for his family and that he did. After the birth of his son Roger Junior, he relocated from the Parish of Clarendon to Saint Mary where he together with his beloved wife Karen formed a successful contracting company where they worked hand in hand for several years. Throughout the years they’ve employed many, and always sought ways to give back to those in need. In addition to his main source of income Roger was adept at plumbing, welding and generally your go-to handyman; he was truly a jack of all trades.
Over a decade ago Roger and his wife gave their daughter the opportunity to attend college in the US, this was not an easy task however they worked tirelessly to see her through to graduation. He did so not only financially, but spiritually and emotional as he was one who could speak on any topic, adding valuable insight, and providing sound advice. In everything he did or said he always puts God first and his sons looked up to him as the ultimate role model. He showed them how to value hard work, be respectful, and was always there to offer words of wisdom.
In 2016 Roger migrated to the United States to live with his daughter, wife & youngest son. Five years prior to his emigration up to 2019 Roger provided care and support to his wife who was at the time diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment. He did everything in his power, went above and beyond to be a supportive & loving husband and father. Roger began employment shortly after his arrival to the US as a Maintenance technician with Lebus Bakery Outlet, where he was well-loved and instantly formed a bond with his LeBus family. He loved his work and people he worked with so much that even after relocating to Delaware he still commuted the long way to King of Prussia Pennsylvania daily for work----Roger was a fiercely dedicated man.
During his leisure time Roger enjoyed cycling, listening to gospel music, Roots Rock Reggae, watching western movies, attending church service at St. Thomas where he was a member. He also enjoy working in his private workshop at home repairing and building new practical things. There are so many things in and around our house that has his trademark. He also would look forward to visit Jamaica each year where his beloved brother, confidant and forever right hand man Neville (Sylvester) was executing planned upgrade to the family home. His most recent visit was earlier this year when he went to add some extra touches to his gorgeous home he and Karen built over the years.
Roger was positive, uplifting, encouraging, a true family man who effortlessly fostered meaningful relationships with everyone he crossed path with; be it at his place of employment, riding the bus/train, at the farmers market, at Church, doctor’s office and within his circle of friends and family. Many family members & friends can attest to their countless lengthy conversations with Roger, he was a great conversationalist, a true people person, and very definition of a great father, devoted husband, son, sibling, grand father and friend.
Roger has accomplished so much in his 57 years. From the smiles he placed on many faces, to the hearts that he’s warmed; to the love that he gave to everyone he encountered, he always was a genuine fellow; thus his life was rich and full of blessings of which he would readily share. His goal was to spread good vibes and positive energy everywhere he went and he did accomplish that.
Roger is survived by his daughter Rackell Smith, sons Fabian Smith and Roger Smith Jr., grandchildren Gabrielle, Arianna, Taylon & Fabianna Smith. Mother Daphne White, sister Donna Marie Smith, brothers Sylvester White & Corlus Morrison, aunt, cousins, nieces, nephew and many dear friends.
During this difficult time Roger would say “Do not question God, everything He does is for a reason, God is good all the time, Mi Pencil it out, Yuh know seh…with a scratch of his head.”
Therefore you are all encouraged to remain positive and celebrate Roger‘s legacy and life as he did with a mission to spread love and joy.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life Funeral Service at African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, 6331 Lancaster Ave., Philadelphia, PA, on Thursday, September 15 at 11:00am. Friends may call at the church from 10:00am-11:00am.