Samuel E. Smith

Samuel Earl Smith was born on February 20, 1951 to the late Mr. Grant Smith and Mrs. Marie Smith (nee Glasper) in New Britain, Connecticut. After a long and valiant fight against cancer, Sam transitioned from this life on Sunday night, April 24, 2022 at home surrounded by his beloved wife Janet, their three cherished children Samuel (II), Quincy, and Amber, as well as, daughter-in-law Tara Smith (nee Givens). The youngest of six siblings, Sam graduated from New Britain High School in 1969. Shortly after graduating from NBHS, Sam enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he served his country honorably and achieved the rank of E-4 Corporal. Throughout his life, Sam remained a proud Marine (Semper Fi!) who could often be seen around town wearing his USMC baseball cap and graciously accepting the “thank you for your service” comments from civilians. Several years after serving in the USMC, Sam’s largest achievements occurred. First, he met, courted, and married Janet Smith (nee Buckles) in Memphis, Tennessee on July 9, 1976. They became the proud parents of two sons and a daughter and enjoyed 46 years of holy matrimony together. Sam’s second highest achievement was being hired with the State of Connecticut Department of Labor as a Community Service Representative (CSR) where he assisted unemployed workers with filing claims for unemployment insurance benefits. His kindness, efficiency, and professionalism when working with the public earned him the nickname “Sam, the unemployment man” among many residents in New Britain and nearby surrounding areas. Sam was also so respected by his colleagues that he would become an AFSCME (union) steward where he would utilize the skills of his CSR position to advocate for his co-workers and address grievances and concerns. In 2003, he retired after 25 years with the CT DOL. In his retirement, Sam was able to return to frequently enjoying his two favorite sports. He would hit the links at Stanley Golf Course as often as possible for some friendly but competitive match play with and against his brother Raymond and other golfers. A loyal Yankee fan, Sam would watch every game and cheer on his Bronx Bombers and was able to attend a couple games in both the old and new Yankee Stadium. He was also able to enjoy old hobbies like going on joyrides in his cars; treating himself to his favorite Italian and Polish pastries; as well as new hobbies, like enjoying the scenic views of Walnut Hill when taking his daily walks. A life-long resident of New Britain, Sam was a member of St. James Missionary Baptist Church where his faith and acceptance of his Lord and Savior, the clergy, and congregation kept him spiritually nourished on his journey in Christ. Sam is survived and will be forever missed and cherished by: his darling and devoted wife Janet Smith (nee Buckles), three children, Samuel Earl Smith II and his wife Tara Smith (nee Givens), Quincy Smith, Amber Whitney Smith; all of New Britain, CT; three brothers, James Walter Smith of New Britain, Raymond Smith and his wife Kathy Smith of Murrells Inlet, SC, Grant Smith Jr. of Vernon, CT; one sister, Darlene “Bell” Ankton and her husband Glenn Ray Ankton of Escondido, CA; one aunt, Corine Childs and her husband Mitch Childs of Newington, CT; his two greatest joys, his grandkids, Samuel “Trey Trey” Smith III and Claritie Skye Smith; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Sam was predeceased by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Grant Smith, his brother Mack Allen Smith and his wife Judy. Sam was a kind-hearted, fun-loving, and beloved husband, father, father-in-law, brother, grandfather, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and patient to many. To know him, was to love him and his positive spirit and good-nature will live on through his family members and all those with the privilege of being a part of his life. The Homegoing Celebration (WITH MASKS REQUIRED) will be held for Samuel Earl Smith Saturday, April 30, 2022 at Spottswood A.M.E. Zion Church on 25 Crestwood Lane New Britain, CT 06053. Calling Hours will be held from 12-1:00 p.m. with the funeral services directly following. Following the services, interment with military honors will be held at Fairview Cemetery, 120 Smalley Street New Britain, CT 06051. Repast will be held at the Elks Lodge on 24 Elm Street, New Britain, CT 06051 following interment. Carlson Funeral Home, New Britain is assisting with arrangements. Please share a memory or note of sympathy at www.carlsonfuneralhome.com

Samuel E. Smith

February 20, 1951 - April 24, 2022

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Samuel E. Smith

February 20, 1951 - April 24, 2022

365 Days of Grief Support

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About Us

Grief & Healing

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Plan Ahead

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