Richard Leon Smith

Richard Leon Smith, our beloved Father, Husband, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, and Legend, peacefully passed away of natural causes surrounded by family on April 6, 2024. He was 79 years young.

Richard was born on December 16th, 1944, to Howard and Leaone Smith in Pocatello, Idaho. Later, they moved to Brigham City with his older brother Tom and younger brother Bruce. Richard graduated from Box Elder High School in 1962.

In 1966, Richard met the love of his life, Roberta Brown, and they were married on March 28th of the same year. They went on to have one of the most cherished marriages of all time and were blessed with three children: Richie, Jason, and Natalie. They celebrated 51 years together before Roberta’s passing in 2017, and Richard’s heart was never the same after losing her.

Richard and Roberta (Robbie) were long-time and respected residents of Ogden and the surrounding areas.

Richard, never afraid of hard work, excelled in everything he pursued. From his early days working on rebuilding cars and engines at his childhood home in Brigham City to fulfilling his dream of starting a business with our mother, The Iron Horse, in the mid-70s in Riverdale. Just as they did in their marriage, they worked alongside each other to make all of our dreams come true.

As an enthusiastic sportsman, Richard treasured every moment spent with his boys. They delighted in engaging in various activities together, such as building race cars like Trac Man Fever and Concussion for Jason, as well as two drag cars – one for Richie and his granddaughter Lexie – which they raced at Bonneville Raceway. Additionally, they all shared a deep love for hunting, golfing, skiing, boating, and camping. Richard took great pleasure in supporting Natalie in her dance pursuits, cheering her on as she competed and achieved success. His passion for these activities was sincere, and he found immense joy in experiencing them with his family and friends.

Richard’s love for his family and zest for life were contagious. His presence, love, and kindness could be felt even from miles away. He had a natural talent for communication and took pleasure in sharing stories from the past. He had the gift of gab and a repertoire of inappropriate jokes that never failed to make everyone laugh. Richard truly embraced life and enjoyed every moment of it.

Richard was predeceased by his Father Howard Thomas Smith, Leaone Smith, his loving wife Roberta, and his brother Tom Smith. He is survived by his three children Richie, Jason, and Natalie (Spence), and his brother Bruce (Linda). He also leaves behind four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at Leavitt’s Mortuary at 836 36th Street in Ogden on Friday, April 12th from 5:00 pm-6:30 pm, with the service starting at 7:00 pm. A private funeral will be held at Brigham City Cemetery on Saturday, April 13th, where he will be laid to rest alongside Robbie and his parents.

We would like to thank Maxine Palmer, our Father’s friend and companion for the support and kindness she gave our father over the last 5 years.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.leavittsmortuary.com