Edward J. Smith

Edward Joseph Smith Jr. "Ted" 79, of Warwick, died peacefully at home on Friday May 9, 2025 after a long illness with his family by his side. He was the husband of Claudia B. (St. Vincent) Smith. Edward was born on May 22, 1945, to the late Mary Regina (Clavin) and Edward Joseph Smith. He grew up in Cranston, lived in Dartmouth, Massachusetts for 25 years while raising his family, and then resided in Warwick until his passing.

A graduate of Cranston High School, class of 1963, Edward earned his bachelor’s degree from Bryant College in 1967, where he was a brother of the Delta Sigma Chi fraternity. He served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1969 and later completed his master’s degree at Bryant University in 1979. Edward spent his career working in accounting and human resources, primarily for Shepard Justin Clothing in New Bedford and MacLeod Optical Company in Warwick. He also worked as a consultant and as a Navigator for RI VetCorps, helping fellow veterans obtain aid and benefits.

Edward was an avid fan of the New York Giants, Boston Red Sox, and Boston Celtics. He enjoyed playing golf, reading, listening to music, and relaxing outdoors on warm, sunny days. He married his wife Claudia in 1979 and remained a devoted husband throughout his life. Though he had a strong work ethic, he always put his family first as a dedicated father, husband, and friend. He coached his sons’ sports teams and supported their interests, education, and ambitions throughout their lives. He also took great pride in his military service and in helping veterans later in life.

Besides his wife Claudia, he is survived by his sons David Smith and his wife, Crystal Walen, of Denver, CO, and Eric Smith of Smithfield, siblings, Donald Smith of Jacksonville, FL, Steven and Kenneth Smith both of Cranston, and Carol Stoltze of Newton, MA, granddaughter Xenia as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4:00-7:00pm in The Butterfield Chapel 500 Pontiac Avenue Cranston.  A Memorial Serice will be held at 7:00pm. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Masonic Grand Lodge Charities of RI at 222 Taunton Avenue East Providence, RI 02914 (please write “medical equipment” in the check memo), or HopeHealth Hospice at 1085 North Main Street Providence, RI 02904.