Dr. Richard L. Smith, 72, of Webster, NY and Silver Spring, MD, beloved husband, father and grandfather (Granddad), passed away suddenly on October 30, 2017. He lived a life of intellectual curiosity, scientific discovery and innovation, pursuing his passions for learning and teaching.
Richard graduated summa cum laude from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a Bachelor of Science degree, Physics in 1967, and then went on to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to earn his PhD in Astrophysics in 1971. Subsequently, he performed research and taught Physics at both the California Institute of Technology and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Richard then went on to work in industry, developing advanced technologies for NASA and other government agencies.
Richard devoted much time volunteering to support competitive swimming in Montgomery County, MD. He was the parent representative manager for a local swim team, was a certified official, served on the Board of Directors, and wrote software to support managing swim meet entries and results.
For the last twenty years, Richard enjoyed retirement in which he pursued his passions including classical piano, gardening, nature, genealogy, mathematics, woodworking, and his grandchildren.
Richard is survived by his wife of 49 years, Phyllis (Nunno), their son Steven, daughter-in-law Kirstyn and grandchildren Oliver and Henry Smith of Rochester, NY, along with his brothers Edward and Robert of Manchester, NH.
He is predeceased by his parents, Stauffer and Helen (Bruce) Smith, of Kirkville, NY. A private service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to McQuaid Jesuit High School, 1800 S. Clinton Ave, Rochester NY 14618 .