Robert P. “Bob” Smith, 85, of Vicksburg passed away with his family by his side after a lengthy illness with dementia. He was born Jan. 29, 1933, in Wesson to the late Pearly and Lora Etta Smith.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Betty Jo Smith. Also, he was predeceased by his sisters, Etta Pearl Ray and Joyce Evans.

He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Thompson (Mark) of Jackson and Amy Johnson (Steve) of Branson, Mo.; one sister, Patsy Jordan of Altus, Okla.; grandchildren, Landon Thompson and Lindsey Brunson (Will) of Jackson; Hannah and Haley Johnson of Branson, Mo.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was a graduate of Wesson High School, where he was a football star. He attended Colin, where he played football and met the love of his life, Betty Jo Fallin.

After transferring to Florida State on a football scholarship, he transferred to Tulane and his football career ended with an emergency appendectomy. He received his Bachelor of Science degree at University of Southern Mississippi in December 1955.

He married his college sweetheart, Betty Jo on Dec. 11, 1955, and was drafted into the Navy. He was stationed in San Diego until 1957.

After his time in the navy, they moved to Baton Rogue, La., and he received his master of mathematics from Louisiana State University. In 1960, they moved to Vicksburg, where he worked for the railroad until he started at Waterways Experiment Station in 1964 as a mathematician. He retired in 1997 as Chief of Mobility for the Geotechnical Lab. Also, he enjoyed building houses as B&B Builders for many families in Vicksburg whom he and Betty Jo had long lasting friendships with through the years.

For pleasure, Bob and Betty Jo were members, along with dear friends, of a monthly bridge club for most of their years in Vicksburg.

All who knew him could appreciate his lifelong willingness to help others to the best of his ability. He had a true servant’s heart. He spent many years volunteering at The Good Shepherd Center with the Rev. Watkins. He was a very active member at Crawford Street United Methodist Church for over 50 years and loved his Sunday School, “The Friendship Class”. He would not miss a Sunday until his disease caused him to be unable to attend. Afterwards, Betty Jo devoted 17 years of their life taking care of him until her death on Nov. 16, 2017.

The family will have a private memorial service.

Betty Jo had instructed to have his body donated to science at University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Memorials may be made in Bob’s name to The UMMC Mind Center 2500, N. State Street, Jackson, MS 39216.