Robert Smith III, a distinguished public servant, naval officer and devoted family man, passed away on October 3 in Dallas at the age of 86. He spent much of his career in service to the Federal Reserve System.
After earning his BS degree in agricultural economics from Texas A&M University, Smith pursued further studies at the School of Banking of the South at Louisiana State University and the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. He also attended the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, completing junior- and senior-level command and staff courses.
Smith’s professional life was marked by notable accomplishments in both military and civilian service. He served his country with honor in the U.S. Navy for nearly 35 years, rising to the rank of rear admiral. His naval career included numerous assignments across the Pacific and Atlantic fleets, and he was selected to serve as chief of staff to the commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet before retiring in 1996.
In civilian life, Smith embarked on a remarkable career with the Federal Reserve Bank, beginning as an economic research assistant in 1968. His exceptional skills and dedication saw him rise through the ranks, ultimately achieving the position of senior vice president in charge of the Fed’s Houston branch. During his 43-year career with the Federal Reserve, Smith oversaw significant advancements, including the expansion of public outreach and community involvement. His contributions left an enduring legacy on the institution.
Beyond his professional achievements, Smith was a tireless advocate for education, civic engagement and the institutions and traditions he held dear. He devoted countless hours to community service and leadership, serving the Cotton Bowl Athletic Association, Pearl Harbor Memorial, Marine Military Academy in Harlingen and Houston World Affairs Council.
A proud Texas A&M Aggie, Smith maintained a lifelong love for the university and Aggie football. His dedication to his alma mater was recognized with the university’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2005. In 2007, he was inducted into the Tyrus R. Timm Honor Registry in the Department of Agricultural Economics. He also served on the President’s Council of Advisors and supported the Association of Former Students and the Corps of Cadets Center for Excellence. His commitment to the Aggie community earned him the Jimmy Williams Distinguished Service Award from the Dallas A&M Club in 1999 and the Outstanding Houston Aggie of the Year Award from the Houston A&M Club in 2002. He was also inducted into the Corps of Cadets Hall of Honor in 2008. Following his retirement from the Federal Reserve, Smith continued his service to Texas A&M as president and chief operating officer of Texas A&M University–Galveston.
Smith cherished his role as a husband to Mary Sue (Reinhardt) Smith, whom he married on April 12, 1963. Together, they shared a life enriched by mutual love and respect. He is survived by his beloved wife, his brother Rodney Smith and wife Tommie, and a host of nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Texas A&M Foundation, 401 George Bush Drive, College Station, Texas 77840. Gifts received will be directed to the Texas A&M Maritime Academy Excellence Fund, account 500-74271. Please designate gifts as “In Memory of Mr. Bob Smith” in the memo line of your check. Click here to make an online donation and select “This gift is a tribute to someone.”
