Robin Smith

Celebration of Life for Warren “Robin” Smith, 80, Lawrence will be held from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Johnny’s Tavern in North Lawrence.  Robin passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2025.

Robin was born on June 20, 1944, in Topeka, KS the son of Robert E. and Elsie M. (Reilly) Smith.

He graduated from Topeka High School.  He earned a  bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Washburn University, he later received his master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas.

He began a career in Social Work as a case worker for the State of Kansas in Kansas City.  After earning his Master’s degree he worked as a policy writer for SRS.   Eventually he took on new responsibilities with the State working for the Child Support Enforcement division.  After 30 years in public service, he retired from the State in 1999.

In his younger years, he enjoyed restoring cars with his dad and refurbishing antique furniture.  He was an avid sailor and a member and former Commodore of the Shawnee Yacht Club in Topeka. After retiring he and several friends built a workshop which became the center of his retirement years.  From that workshop, he cared for his grandchildren, took on carpentry and wood working projects, and hosted many visitors for good conversation and cold beer.

He married Shirley Hendricks Martin on April 28, 1984, in Topeka, KS.  They were introduced by a neighbor and went on their first date the next day.  She became his sailing crew.  While he was an avid sailor, he wasn’t the fastest on the lake.  After they were married, he named his boat, “Slowly but Shirley…and Robin.”

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.  Robin was loved by all who met him.  He was clever, had a great sense of humor, and was always quick with a pun.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Martin-Smith; children, Tim (Eydie Jones) Martin, Lori (Eric) MacDonald, and Robert L. Smith; brother, Terry (Marcia) Smith; sister-in-law, Lois Smith; grandchildren, Spencer (Veronica) MacDonald, Maura MacDonald, and Reagan MacDonald.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Wayne Smith.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Dwane Peaslee Technical Training Center c/o Douglas County Community Foundation, Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center, and The Cottonwood Foundation Endowment Fund, and can be sent in care of the mortuary.

Online condolences may be posted at warrenmcelwain.com .