Richard "Smitty" Smith

Richard J. “Smitty” Smith, age 71 passed away on March 12, 2024, surrounded by his family in Somerville, New Jersey.

Richard was born in Somerville, NJ on September 12, 1952, to William Joseph and Rita (nee Balchunas) Smith. He met his beloved wife Catherine Cody, and they spent 51 years together, being married for over 40 of those years.

“Smitty” as he was best known to his family and friends worked for the South Bound Brook Dept. of Public Works as a Foreman and had many hobbies and interests which included a love of NASCAR and Harley Davidson motorcycles. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and NY Mets fan as well. He would frequently be seen wear his Hawaiian shirts, listening to country music and was lovingly called the “unofficial” mayor of town.

Smitty was a member of the Elizabeth Ave. Fire Dept. and was the Ex-President. He worked for many years at O’Brien’s in Franklin as a bartender and made many friends there as well.

Richard is predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Catherine, his brother William Smith and sister Joanne Smith Accetta and her husband Christopher Accetta. He also survived by his “adopted” daughter, Candi Fritzinger and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great nephew, with one on the way. He is also survived by his beloved companion, his Bernese Mountain dog, Abbagail.

All services are under the supervision of Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home and are private currently. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.