Obituary of Richard Paul Smith

On Wednesday December 14, 2022, peacefully in the presence of God, Richard Paul Smith of Willsboro, NY, entered his eternal life. The loving husband of Margaret Lucille (Remancus) Smith; Richard was born in Midland Park, New Jersey on January 18, 1942. A toolmaker by trade, Richard retired in 2007 in Willsboro and settled across the street from Margaret's original homestead. A special highlight of each day while in Willsboro was opening and closing St. Philip's Church and visiting with the Lord in prayer. Years of volunteer work at the Senior Assisted Living Home and at St. Philip's Church, brought immeasurable joy to all involved. Richard will be remembered for his calm, gentle, giving, trusting, thankful and peaceful demeanor. His faith increased day by day. He had a deep interest and love of nature and all creation. As his illness progressed, his time was spent watching nature and the birds and little animals that frequented the bird feeders outside the sunroom. Richard loved well, worked hard and gave freely. He brought glory to God in his suffering as he daily gave thanks to Heaven and trusted completely in God's will for his life. Survivors include the children of his heart; Joseph Smart of Willsboro, Jonathan Paradis of CT, Jon (Julie) Steeves & family of Oregon, Eric (Sophia) Steeves and family of Ct, Mark (Michelle) Steeves and family of Ct, Maria (Chris) DiBattista and family of NY; 11 grand children; many great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Christine and Hitoshi Okano of Worcester Massachusetts; 2 nieces and 2 nephews; and son in love, Travis McDougal. Richard's special family, Bogdan & Ania Polak with grandsons Justin & Logan brought him immense love, joy, care and devotion. They have been forever present at his side. He was predeceased by his father-in-law, John Remancus, with whom he had a close and uplifting relationship; and the daughter of his heart, Kristina Knox, who lovingly called him Papa. Richard expressed thankfulness and a special bond to family/caregiver, Martha Joslin, who entered his heartfelt love and showered him with exceptional care beyond limits. The family thanks Margie Jaquish who exhibited compassion and attention; and also the High Peaks Hospice staff and his loving nurse Morgan Murphy who helped Richard on his final walk on earth. Richard's son Joseph provided him with unlimited attention and care and was constantly by his side. Relatives and friends are invited to call, Friday, Dec. 16, Saturday Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18, each day from Noon to 4 pm at Richard's residence, 3715 Main Street, Willsboro. On Saturday the 17th at 1 pm Deacon Paul White will offer Prayer and Holy Rosary. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, December 19, 2022 at 10 am at St. Philip of Jesus Church in Willsboro with Fr. Francis Flynn, Fr. Justin Thomas and Deacon Paul White, all participating with the Mass celebration. A family procession of the casket from Richard's home to the church will occur at 9:30 am on Monday. Masses in Richard's name are welcomed. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the High Peaks Hospice, PO Box 205, Mineville, NY 12956. Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru, 643-9055.