Robert Earl Smith, 85 of Columbia passed away Friday, May 18, 2012.

Services will be held at 1:30 pm, Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at Parker Funeral Service with Pastor Mark Butrum officiating. Visitation will be from noon to 1:30 Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Robert was born June 10, 1926 in Boone County to George Lee and Nannie Roberts Smith. He married Mary Lou Martin on June 29, 1944 and she survives.

Robert served as an MP with the US Army. He worked for the Columbia Fire Department for 30 years retiring in 1982 as Lieutenant. He was very active in dirt track racing in central Missouri during the 1950’s.

Survivors include: his wife, Mary Lou Smith of Columbia; a son, Robert E. Smith Jr. and wife Shannon of Columbia; a daughter, Sandra Thornhill and husband Jerry of Barrington, IL and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and four sisters.

Memorials may be given to Rocky Fork Fellowship, 555 N. Route B, Hallsville, MO 65255.