Colonel Kevin Lawrence Smith Usmc (Ret.)

A Memorial Service will be held on June 3rd, 2025, at 10:30 AM, at the Naval Academy with a gathering of food and fellowship to follow at the Officer's Club. If you plan to attend, please call or text Rosa at 540-905-5602 to receive specific instructions for entry onto the grounds.

We invite you to join us for a reception following the service at the Naval Academy Club,

2 Truxtun Road, Naval Academy, MD 21402

Kindly RSVP by  May 23,2025 to help us plan:

Please contact Rosa at 540.905.5602 (text) or (email) Chocolateparami@aol.com

Kevin Lawrence Smith, a devoted husband, father, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, with his beloved wife, Rosa, by his side. He was 64 years old. Born in New York in 1960 to Lawrence Leighton Smith and Joy Pottle-Smith, Kevin spent his formative years in San Pedro, where he embraced the California lifestyle and developed a lifelong passion for the beach and surfing.

Kevin was raised by his cherished grandfather, Harry Hathaway Pottle, who inspired him to follow in his footsteps and attend the United States Naval Academy. He entered the Academy in 1979, where he played on the rugby team and formed lifelong friendships. Upon graduating in 1983, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps and reported to the Naval Air Training Command in Pensacola, Florida. There, he earned his wings as a Naval Aviator in May 1985 and was later designated as a Helicopter Second Pilot (H2P), reporting to HMM-164 MAG-16, and promoted to First Lieutenant.

Kevin participated in both Operations Desert Thunder and Desert Storm as a Squadron Flight Officer. His exceptional 27-year career in the Marine Corps exemplified dedication and excellence. From piloting his beloved CH-46 "Phrog" to serving as Squadron Operations Officer (HMM-263 MAG-29), to ultimately serving as Commanding Officer of HMM-265 (Dragons) in Okinawa, Japan, and rising to the rank of Colonel, Kevin performed his duties admirably.

After Okinawa, Kevin took on new challenges at the Pentagon, lending his expertise to critical defense programs. He later served in Quantico, where he mentored future leaders and worked to strengthen the Marine Corps through his roles in manpower and policy. After 27 years of dedicated service (from 1983 to 2010), Kevin retired from the Marine Corps, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and leadership.

After retiring, Kevin continued to support the armed forces as a Laser Range Safety Specialist contractor.

Kevin was known for his resilience, humor, and compassion. A man of deep Catholic faith, he found joy in nature and outdoor adventures. Surfing remained his lifelong passion, but he also loved basketball, swimming, hiking with his family and dog, and playing pickleball. Kevin competed in sprint triathlons with his daughter Krista and shared a love of skateboarding, music, and playing guitar with his son Michael. He was an avid traveler, a devoted James Taylor fan, a thoughtful writer, and a loyal supporter of the Washington Nationals, Capitals, and Commanders.

In his later years, Kevin faced the challenges of posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) dementia and vision impairment with grace and unwavering strength, inspiring all who knew him with his courage and spirit.

Kevin is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Rosa, who lovingly cared for him throughout his illness; his two children, Michael Smith (Celica) and Krista Fekecs (Richie), and his three grandchildren, Laiq, Gabriella, and Raif. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Maria Hovet (the late Kenny Hovet), his nieces Ali, Cristi, and Anna; his brother, Chris Smith (Renee), and nieces Brittany, Samantha, and nephew Zachary; as well as his beloved dog, Bruno.

Kevin will be remembered as a man of immense character and kindness, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and cherished memories.

He will be laid to rest at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, fulfilling his lifelong commitment to service and country.

Forever remembered as Kevin, Deeks, KL, and Smitty.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the USNA Foundation by clicking HERE

or to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation by clicking HERE

Thank you!