Richard P. Smith, 79, of Grafton, died peacefully at the White River Junction Veterans Hospital surrounded by his loved ones on May 22, 2016. He was born in Hanover on October 9, 1936, the son of the late George S. and Evelyn (Stevens) Smith.

Rick attended Grafton, Lebanon, and Manchester schools. He received his GED while stationed in the US Army in Germany from 1957 to 1959 with the 1st Observation Battalion Battery A Survey Section. After the Army he worked as a machinist in the Manchester Die Shop, then for the Railway Express Company and finally for the Boston and Maine Railroad for 30 years as a conductor until his retirement in 1998.

He was predeceased by a brother, Willard H. Smith, and is survived by his wife of 54 years, Beverly (George) Smith of Grafton, and their three children: Scott Smith of Grafton, Katherine and her husband Richard Derby of New Boston; and Deborah Parkman of Andover; four grandchildren, Lianna, Jennifer, Kyle, and Samantha; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He loved his family unconditionally. He would enjoy scenic motorcycle rides around Newfound Lake and the White Mountains. Enjoyment came from listening to country music, bowling, working on crossword puzzles, and mowing his land on his riding lawn tractor. His family will always remember his calm and loving spirit. He was a true gentle man.

Friends may call on Thursday, May 26, from 1 to 3 PM with a service to follow at 3 PM at the Chadwick Funeral Home, 235 Main Street, New London. Military honors will be conducted.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mascoma Senior Center, 1166 US Route 4, Canaan NH 03741.