Dr. Robert T. Smith

Dr. Robert T. Smith – age 51 of Knoxville, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones, on April 15, 2013. Dr. Smith battled pancreatic cancer for 3 years. Dr. Smith was a 1980 graduate of Oak Ridge High School and a 1984 graduate of the University of Tennessee. He earned a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in 1988, completed an oral surgery residency at UT Hospital in 1989, and completed a Master of Science with a Specialty in Orthodontics in 1991 at The University of Detroit before opening up an orthodontic practice in Fountain City in 1991. His success led to the opening of a second office in Halls in 1992. Dr. Smith was passionate about his practice and his patients. He was a perfectionist who welcomed difficult cases and specialized in making patients laugh. His generosity and humility allowed patients to see him as more than a doctor. He was also a friend. He was respected by his peers and adored by his staff. Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Smith was a loving husband and an adoring father. He positively impacted the lives of many and leaves behind many close friends. He was a gifted—and somewhat daring—water and snow skier, a talented cook, a skilled golfer, an avid Tennessee sports fan and the perpetual life of the party. Dr. Smith was preceded in death by his mother Jean Sadler Smith. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Smith; son, Kent Smith and Kent's mother Ann Trivette Wall; father and step-mother, Jimmy and Patty Smith; sister, Karen Moore; niece and nephew, Chris & Courtney Moore; grandmother, Jeanette Smith; step-daughter, Chelsea Martin; step-son and step-daughter-in-law, Jonathan and Maegan Martin; and step-son and step-daughter-in-law, Shaun and Amanda Martin. Dr. and Mrs. Smith attended Sevier Heights Baptist Church. Dr. Smith and his family wish to express the most heartfelt gratitude to Rob's many, many close friends and relatives, too numerous to name and loving orthodontic staff, all who have demonstrated overwhelming kindness. A celebration of Dr. Smith's life is planned for April 18, 2013, at Smithview Pavilion, 601 Smithview Drive, Maryville, TN beginning at 5:00 pm where the family invites friends to gather to share memories of a life well lived. Special words about Rob will be at 7:00 pm. Family and friends will assemble for graveside services and interment on Friday, April 19 at Grandview Memorial Gardens, Clinton, TN at 2:00 p.m. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dr. Robert T. Smith please visit our Sympathy Store.