Walter F. Smith Jr.

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Walter F. Smith Jr., age 79, passed away peacefully at his home Sept. 8, 2021. Although Walter grew up in Keansburg, he lived most of his life in Middletown. He was a graduate of Middletown High School where he played football and held the record for Most Touchdowns in a Quarter.

After proudly serving his nation as a member of the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War, Walter was hired as a lineman with Verizon where he worked until he retired. Walter served as the vice president of the Middletown North Booster Club and was involved in Boy Scouts with his son in Troop 242. He was a passionate fan of his beloved Lions and an integral part in creating the Lion Hall of Fame. He was an avid fisherman and a Yankees and Giants fan. He loved all of his Labrador retrievers who brought him so much joy.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years Margaret Smith and his son Jeremy Smith of Stratford, his wife Kimberly and their children Courtney, Ryan and Kyle. He is also survived by his daughter Melissa Smith Sypniewski of Middletown, her husband Raymond and their sons Edward and Matthew. He is also survived by his sister Elizabeth Baccichi of Brick and her family. Walter was predeceased by his mother Elizabeth Wilson Hricov of Keansburg.

A memorial will be arranged at a later date due to COVID-19. In lieu of customary remembrances, Walter’s family requests with gratitude that contributions in his honor be made to the charity of your choice. To offer online condolences please visit pflegerfuneralhome.com.

The article originally appeared in the September 16 – 22, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.