Roger Smith

Roger L. Smith, 69, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2013 at his home in Scotland, CT after a long battle with esophageal cancer. His wife, Debra J. (Schiessl) Kraft Smith was at his side. Roger was born on Jan. 21, 1944, the son of the late George W. and Annie R. (King) Smith. He served in the Connecticut National Guard for 6 years from 1968 to 1974. He worked as a counterman at various auto parts stores Dominick's, Corky's, Big A of Willimantic and Enfield, Tool and Equipment in West Hartford, D & S Pump and Supply, and most recently Gates GMC Nissan of North Windham. He had a strong work ethic and a great sense of humor, and he made friends wherever he went. He loved taking long rides on his motorcycle, and taking pictures of everyday things. He was an independent thinker, intelligent, creative and full of good humor, though he was not afraid to make his feelings known. He loved shopping for his family for the holidays, Christmas was his favorite. He leaves his beloved daughter, Tara-lee Ann Smith of North Pole, AK, his son, Michael Smith of Springfield, MA, and stepson, Christopher A. Kraft of Tolland, CT; four granddaughters: Xena-lee Saunders, Samantha, Jocelyn, and Carissa Kraft, several cousins, and many nieces and nephews. He will be sorely missed. He was predeceased by two brothers, Thomas Flanagan and Edward P. Flanagan, and his sister, Margaret E. (Smith) Lawless. He also leaves several brothers and sisters-in-law. His family would like to give special thanks to the doctors and nurses at the St Francis Cancer Center in Hartford, for all of their care and support over the last few years. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, Sept 21st at the Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St., Willimantic, CT. Visitation hour will be from 12 noon to 1 PM, followed by a service, and then burial at the New Scotland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the St Francis Cancer Center, 114 Woodland St, Hartford, CT 06105, or to St, Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929. Please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com for online memorial guest book.