Earl John Smith Jr., born in Hartford February 21, 1928, to the late Earl J. and Ethel (Tormay) Smith, died Thursday, October 22nd at 3:13pm at Danbury Hospital. He is survived by his loving wife, Vera, of fifty years; daughter Judith of Sandy Hook; son Earl and his wife Kathleen of South Windsor, CT and son Joseph of Silver Springs, MD
He was born in Hartford, CT. Early in life, he attended St. Thomas Seminary. He served honorably as a Chaplain's assistant in Germany during the Korean Conflict. Upon returning to the United States, he attended both Fairfield University and Trinity College and earned a Masters Degree in Education.
He found his calling in Newtown, CT as a Latin and English teacher at the High School. Soon he became an Assistant Principal, watching out for "his kids" until he retired in 1991. With great joy, he attended all reunions to which he was invited.
As a member of the teachers union, he spent a lifetime fighting for teachers' rights. He had many long hours after work helping to negotiate contracts for both teachers and administrators. Upon retirement, he became President of both the Association of Retired Teachers and the Northern Fairfield County Retired Teachers Association, taking great pride in his contributions to help protect teachers' pensions.
He served as Chairman of the Newtown Democratic Town Committee for many years and never lost an opportunity to remind people he was still Chairman Emeritus. In 2011, he was a Jefferson Jackson Bailey honoree. He remained active in state, local and federal politics to his last day. He also was a proud member and past president of the Rotary Club of Newtown, with decades of service. Most important to him was his dedication to the Catholic Church. He faced life with honesty, integrity, and a willingness to fight any battle for a good cause.
Friends may call at the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown Monday October 26th from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Rose of Lima Church, Newtown Tuesday October 27th at 10:30am. Interment will follow in St. Rose Cemetery.
Donations to the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 344, Newtown, CT 06470 will be appreciated by Earl’s family.

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