Robert G. “Bob” Smith, 98, of Thornton, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on February 24, 2026, with loved ones by his side. Born on October 23, 1927, in Madison County, North Carolina to Hubert Dixon Smith and Hulda Brown Smith, Bob was one of twelve children, nine brothers and two sisters.  A close-knit and lively family that shaped his deep sense of loyalty and love. Standing 6-foot-6, Bob was a big man in every sense of the word, but those who knew him would tell you he was a true gentleman through and through.  Kind, warm-hearted, and steady in spirit, he lived his life with quiet purpose and unwavering integrity. Bob proudly served his country in the United States Navy during World War II.  After his service, he used the GI Bill to attend the University of North Carolina, where he got his Bachelor of Arts degree graduating Phi Beta Kappa and a master’s degree in public health.  It was there that he met and married the love of his life, Mary Alice.  Together they built a life grounded in devotion, resilience, and deep love. After earning his master’s degree, Bob went on to a successful and deeply fulfilling career with the American Lung Association, an organization he served with great dedication and passion. Outside of his work, he embraced life wholeheartedly.  He loved sports, enjoyed dancing, relished lively conversations about politics, was an avid bridge player, and had a lifelong love of travel. Above all, Bob treasured being with people; he never met a stranger and had a gift for turning acquaintances into friends. Bob lived a long and remarkably full life.  Just this past October, family and friends gathered to celebrate his incredible 98th birthday, a joyful occasion filled with laughter, stories, and gratitude.  We had already begun talking about his 100th, certain we would have more time.  That celebration now feels even more precious.  When asked how he wished to be remembered Bob humbly said: “He lived a long, long time and did the best he could with the limited talents and abilities he was blessed with.”  Those who loved him might gently disagree about the “limited talents”, because to us, his capacity for love, kindness, strength, and quiet wisdom was boundless. Bob is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Allison Hall; his grandsons, Frederick Wood, Robert (Arenda) Wood, Ty Stapleton, Travis Darnell, Chris (Valerie) Stapleton, and Parrish (Monica) Stapleton; and his great-grandson, Lawson Avery Wood. He is also survived by his stepson, Terry (Jeanne) Stapleton; his brothers, Hayward Smith and Morris Smith; as well as other grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many extended family members who were part of his large and loving family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Alice, and his daughter, Camille. Bob always preferred to celebrate life in the moment, surrounded by friends and family, and in keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal memorial service.