Robert "Bingo" Smith

Name: Visitation
Start: 11/04/2023 03:00 PM
End: 11/04/2023 05:00 PM
Location: Wilkinson Funeral Home

February 26, 1946 — October 26, 2023

Akron

Robert E Smith affectionately known as "Bingo" passed away peacefully October 26 2023, after many years of illness.

Bingo was born February 26 1946 in Memphis, Tennessee to Chalmers and Idella Smith. He attended Melrose High School where he earned All American honors in basketball, football, baseball and track. He settled on Basketball at The University of Tulsa again earning All American honors while also flourishing off the court

Drafted 6th overall by the San Diego Rockets in 1969, Bingo joined the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1970 where he became a franchise cornerstone for 10 years. Bingo finished up his career in San Diego again, this time as a member of the Clippers

Most of his post Basketball career endeavors included giving back to Northeast Ohio, especially youth in myriad of ways.

Preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Smith is survived by children Andre (Kati) Monique, Malaika, Courtney and Misty. Grandchildren; Nicole, Nicholas, Bobby, Chris and Joie.

A host of special friends mourning with the family include Mary Truitt, George and Sandra McClain, Donald Christian, Bill and Jane McCloude and Campy Russell.

Bingo’s legacy will live on with the many awards earned in his lifetime including his legendary # 7 hanging in the rafters of Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to https://tiretowngolfclub.net/