Gordon Jay Smith, 76, of Marlborough, Massachusetts, passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025.
Born on June 16, 1949, in Marlborough, Gordon was the son of Ruth Graham Pahl. He spent his childhood in Marlborough surrounded by family and extended family, and made lifelong friends there. In 1978, he moved to Southborough, where he raised his two children and created countless memories over the next 27 years. Summers and weekends were often spent in York Beach, Maine, a special place he enjoyed for decades before returning home to Marlborough permanently in 2022.
Known affectionately by many as “Smitty” or “Good Guy Gordie,” Gordon worked for Mullen / Sudbury Lumber for nearly 50 years until his retirement. His “WOOD 1” license plate became a familiar sight to friends and coworkers who knew his pride in his trade and his easygoing spirit.
A Vietnam veteran, Gordon was proud to have served his country that he loved so much. Living as a Type 1 diabetic since his early twenties, Gordon faced life with quiet strength and steady resilience.
He will be remembered for always putting family and friends first, his love of golf, his trademark tan, and, of course, his white car that was never far from the fairway, the beach, or a meal out with friends.
Gordon leaves behind his son Justin Smith of Grafton; daughter Lauren Smith and James Venincasa of Southborough; and “Grampa’s” three grandchildren, Brody, Caden, and Riley Venincasa, who were his pride and joy.
It must be said that Gordon was the BEST dad. To Lauren, absolutely – but the love and care he gave his son Justin, who lives with cerebral palsy, was something extraordinary. Justin needed lifelong care, and Gordon’s dedication to him was pure, constant, and full of heart.
He is also survived by his longtime partner Bonny Liles of Marlborough; her daughter Kelsey Liles and Mike Pucci of Winchendon; and their children Mike and Daniel, who lovingly called Gordon “Pop.”
He is further survived by his brothers Logan Smith and his wife Betty, and Kenneth Smith and his wife Diane, all of Marlborough, as well as his former wife Linda Smith of Grafton.
Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, November 4, from 4:00–7:00 PM at Morris-Johnston Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough, MA 01772. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, November 5, at 11:00 AM at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 27 Main Street, Southborough, MA. Burial will follow at Southborough Rural Cemetery, 11 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Projects.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all of Gordon’s doctors, nurses, and hospital staff for their care and kindness over the years. Specifically, Dr Chira of Framingham, who was his physician for 40 years, whom Gordon credited for his excellent knowledge of diabetes.
And to our dad, grampa, partner, pop, brother and friend,
“See ya later. Love ya.”
(Photo and Obituary via Morris-Johnston Funeral Home)
