Tributes To Councillor Robert Smith
Councillor Robert W Smith, one of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Elected Members for the Rhondda Ward, sadly passed away over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Councillor Smith, a staunch and loyal Labour Party member, also served as Mayor of the County Borough in 2009-2010.
Leading the many tributes to Councillor Smith is Rhondda Cynon Taf’s current Mayor, Councillor Steve Powderhill.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Mayor, Councillor Steve Powderhill, said: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Councillor Robert Smith over the Bank Holiday weekend.
“He was a true gentleman who would do all that he could to help anyone. He was a proud to become one of the Elected Members of the Rhondda ward and served the community with great passion.
“We will all miss his warmth, wit, humour and above all else, his presence. On behalf of everyone at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, I would like to send our most sincere condolences to his wife Margaret and family at such a difficult time.”
Councillor Andrew Morgan, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, said: “I am deeply saddened with the news. Councillor Rob Smith, who represented the Rhondda ward with great passion, was a long-standing County Borough Councillor who always strived to represent and speak up for his community.
“I will always be grateful for his help and support and my thoughts are with his wife and family at this time.”
Born in Buckinghamshire, Councillor Smith lived and worked in the Glamorgan area since 1971. He first served as Deputy Mayor before becoming First Citizen, a role he was incredibly proud and honoured to hold.
A great supporter of charity, Councillor Smith’s successful Mayor’s Appeal raised money for Macmillan Cancer Support, Help the Heroes and Diabetes UK (Cymru).
He spent his year in Office raising the profile of all three charities saying that each one had a personal connection to him, helping raise over £50,000 for them due to the overwhelming generosity of the public.
Councillor Smith was also a passionate trade unionist and was a member of the Royal British Legion and each year player a key role in the fundraising efforts of The Poppy Appeal.
Councillor Robert Smith is survived by his wife Margaret, daughters Joanne and Sandra, son-in-laws Michael and Peter and granddaughter Gwyneira.
