Born on March 2, 1952, in Wayne Detroit, Michigan, Aturo (affectionately known as Artie and Lil Smitty) is the son of Arthur D. Smith (Smitty Sr.) and Betty L. Boyle. He grew up alongside his older brother, James L. Smith, also known as Jimmy.

Artie spent part of his youth attending school in Jamaica, West Indies before moving back to New York City, where he attended Andrew Jackson High School in Queens. During those years, he gained early work experience at the Macy’s Warehouse in NYC and a men’s clothing store near his home.

Artie was drafted into the military, serving six years in the US Air Force. Following his military service, he held various positions with the Department of Social Services, the FAA Department of Transportation, National NDT, and Ebasco, eventually retiring from Entergy. Throughout his life, Artie loved spending time with family and friends. A true enthusiast of the arts and the outdoors, he loved listening to jazz, attended many concerts, and found great joy in going fishing and cooking his fresh catch.

He spent the majority of his life in New York City, residing for a time in Chelsea, Manhattan, before settling in Inwood, Manhattan, for his final years. He is survived by his daughter, Amanda Hall-Smith, and his niece, Nicole Smith.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 27th, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, 6110 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, New York. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:30 PM, followed by the rendering of Military Honors by the U.S. Air Force. Committal will be private.