It is with deep sadness and immense gratitude that we remember Richard “Smitty” Smith, a man whose life, work, and presence shaped Cheley across generations. Known to campers and staff simply as Smitty, his connection to Cheley began in 1943, when he first arrived as a camper. From 1943 to 1950, Cheley helped shape Smitty’s early years, and soon after, he returned as a wrangler from 1951 to 1955, working first in Lower Ski Hi and then in Ski Hi. It was during this time that a young camper named Don Cheley came under his care, an early thread in a relationship that would come full circle decades later.
That connection endured for a lifetime. At nearly every Gold Key ceremony, Smitty was there, quietly present, standing witness to generations of young people being recognized for their character and leadership. Each time, Don would speak about Smitty’s influence on his own life, returning again and again to the example Smitty set as a young wrangler and mentor. It was more than tradition; it was a living acknowledgment of the impact one person can have across decades. For the Cheley community, seeing Smitty there was a reminder of continuity, values passed hand to hand, and the deep roots that hold this place together.
After a long and accomplished professional career, Smitty returned to Cheley in 1993, bringing with him a lifetime of experience, perspective, and quiet leadership. He began working with Cheley/Children’s Hospital Burn Camp and later took on the role of Camper in Leadership Training (CILT) Coordinator in 2001, a position through which he mentored and influenced countless young leaders. For many, Smitty was not just a coordinator; he was a role model, a steady presence, and a trusted guide.
Smitty was also an essential part of Cheley’s pre- and post-camp. Each spring, he led a crew of roughly forty staff members tasked with the demanding work of opening camp. Though often forty, fifty, or even sixty years older than the crew, Smitty set the pace, outworking, outlasting, and out-leading people decades younger than himself. He didn’t need to raise his voice to lead. He set the tone through effort, consistency, and integrity.
Beyond his day-to-day work, Smitty served Cheley in broader ways as well, including his time on the John Austin Cheley Foundation Board from 1990 to 2000. His commitment to Cheley was never transactional; it was personal, lifelong, and deeply rooted.
Outside of Cheley, Smitty spent thirty-eight years working for United Airlines as a mail and freight revenue manager. He was passionate about sports, especially cheering on the Chicago Bears and Cubs, and deeply proud of the life he built and the people he loved.
Even after retiring from his official roles, Smitty never truly left camp. He was still around, checking in, observing, offering insight, and staying connected. In later years, he became a familiar sight driving his golf cart around camp, continuing to oversee the camp experience and quietly ensuring things were done right. The cart earned a fitting nickname: the Smitty-mobile.
On February 1, Smitty passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends. He was clear-minded until the very end, sharing stories, expressing gratitude, and ready to rest. His passing leaves a profound absence, but also a deep sense of peace, knowing he lived fully and with purpose.
Not all lives have the same purpose, but all lives have one. Smitty lived in a way that honored his, leaving an imprint on countless hearts that time can never erase. We are better people because we knew him.
Smitty was a legend at Cheley. A mentor. A constant. A shining example of a life well lived. He will be deeply missed by generations of campers, staff, and friends whose lives are forever connected to his.
To Smitty’s family and to all who loved him, our hearts are with you. Thank you for sharing him with us for so many years. Rest in peace, Smitty. Your legacy lives on at Cheley.
A memorial celebrating Smitty’s life is being planned for later this spring. More details will be shared when available.
