Obituary of Roy A. Smith

CHESHIRE - Roy A. Smith, 79, formerly of Cheshire CT and Effingham Illinois, passed away Saturday, August 23, 2014 at CT Hospice in Branford. He was the husband of Sue M. (McArthur) Smith. Roy was born April 24, 1935 in Streater, IL the son of the late Clyde B. and Gladys L. (Sinkler) Smith. He was a Research Metallurgist for Ametek-Pfizer in Wallingford CT for 35 years until his retirement in 2004. Prior to this he worked at Battelle Labs and Kaiser Aluminum. He was well respected in his industry and innovated and patented numerous metallurgical alloys. He also developed a love for minerals and was well known throughout the US as an expert in specimens from the Cave-In-Rock District in Southern Illinois. Roy held a BA degree in geology from the University of Missouri and BS & MS degrees in metallurgical engineering from the Missouri School of Mines. He enjoyed lecturing at mineral clubs throughout New England and teaching kids about crystals. As a young man Roy worked on his parents' farm in Watson, IL and was an outstanding athlete earning numerous honors including both athletic and academic scholarships. Roy was a devoted husband, father and friend to many and will be missed. Besides his wife of 57 years, Roy is survived by his daughters Andra L. Smith of Torrington (and son-in-law Michael Tomasiewicz), and Shelby S. Smith of Effingham, IL; his son Ryan A Smith of Cheshire (and fiancée Marie Paz Acurantes) as well as his grandson Ryan Acurantes Smith Jr. He is predeceased by his brother, Gale B. Smith. He also leaves nephews Scott and Roy V and nieces Denise and Bonnie. Arrangements - Calling hours will be held Friday from 4 - 7 p.m. at Alderson-Ford Funeral Home, 615 South Main Street, Cheshire. Funeral services and burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, PO Box 5022, Wallingford, CT 06492-5022 or Branford Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, Ct. 06405.