Bertram H. Smith

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Bertram H. Smith of Warwick, formerly of Cranston for 64 years died on September 1, 2017 at the age of 96 in the Miriam Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Bert was the husband of Virginia E. (Gibbs) Smith, who passed on May 28, 2011. Bert and Ginny had been happily married for 61 years at the time of Ginny's death.
Bert was born in Providence on July 23, 1921 to Frederic B. and Clara Jane (Balmforth) Smith. Bert worked at BIF starting in 1940 and left BIF to go in the United States Navy from August 30, 1943 and had an Honorable Discharge on May 3, 1946. He worked as a Toolmaker/Engineer at BIF until July 23, 1986. He was a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church of Providence, serving on many committees and worked tirelessly to help maintain the Church. When Bert was discharged from the Navy in Shoemaker, CA he hitchhiked back to Providence with $13.00 and arrived in Providence with ten cents, using seven cents to take the trolley to his parent’s home. In July 1939 Bert rode his bicycle with a longtime friend to the NY World’s Fair. Bert was able to tell you stories of events in his life that dated back many years. Bert and Ginny traveled together to see family in other states and visited places dear to them.
Bert is survived by his children, Carol J. Blais (Al), Russell P. Smith and Jeffrey W. Smith (Lori) all of Warwick and Marilynn J. Smith of Johnston, RI. He was the father of the late Brian S., Gary L., Gordon D. Smith and Leslie R. Roy. He is survived by five grandchildren: Brian Smith Jr., Corey A. Blais, Brianna Smith, Justin Smith and Austin D. Blais. He was the brother of the late Frederic, Ralph, Edna Smith and Myrtle Van Duyl. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews and countless friends both young and old.
Friends may call at the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Home, 2435 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889 on Friday, September 8, 2017 from 4-7 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 7 p.m. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donation to Calvary Baptist Church Memorial Fund, 747 Broad St. Providence, RI, INSIGHT 43 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick, RI or the Salvation Army 386 Broad St. Providence, RI will be appreciated. Information and condolences visit, TheQuinnFuneralHome.com