Bob Smith’s wife, Carol, turned from reluctant spectator to a passionate Terps supporter.
The University of Maryland community and countless others are mourning the loss of Bob “Turtle” Smith, who passed away at the age of 84.
A proud alumnus, devoted family man, and unwavering supporter of Maryland Athletics, Bob’s life was defined by passion, leadership, and generosity.
Born in Chewsville, Maryland, Bob grew up as the youngest of four children.
His love for baseball began at just seven years old, blossoming into a standout athletic career.
He excelled on the baseball field at Northern High in Hagerstown and went on to play for the University of Maryland, where he became co-captain his senior year and received the Berger Cup for outstanding contributions to Maryland Athletics.
Bob’s impact on the university extended far beyond his playing days.
After building a highly successful business career as Vice President for multiple Fortune 500 companies and later founding Smith Properties in Maryland, Bob devoted himself to supporting his alma mater.
Over the years, he and his wife, Carol, donated more than $3 million to Maryland Athletics.
Their contributions established the first full baseball scholarship endowment and funded multiple other scholarships and facility improvements.
In recognition of their generosity, the university renamed its baseball stadium Shipley Field at Bob “Turtle” Smith Stadium.
Bob’s legacy is one of generosity, mentorship, and unwavering pride in his family and the Maryland community.
He is survived by his two sons, Rob and Sean, and three grandchildren.
The Enduring Legacy Bob Smith Built Alongside His Wife Carol
While Bob “Turtle” Smith’s name adorns the stadium and headlines his remarkable contributions, those close to him know that much of his success and lasting impact would not have been possible without his wife and partner of 37 years, Carol Smith.
A native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Carol met Bob in the early 1980s.
At the time, she was not particularly interested in sports — that quickly changed.
It was Bob who first introduced her to the excitement of college athletics when he took her to an ACC Basketball Tournament in Landover in 1980.
That day marked the beginning of Carol’s transformation into not only a sports fan but one of Maryland’s most dedicated supporters.
Together, Bob and Carol became a fixture in the Maryland Athletics community.
For over four decades, they held season tickets to football and basketball games, frequently traveled to support the Terps on the road, and actively contributed to the university’s athletic programs.
But Carol’s dedication went far beyond cheering from the stands.
She played an instrumental role in the couple’s philanthropic efforts, co-establishing the Robert W. and Carol B. Smith and Family Endowed Baseball Scholarship in 2007 — the first fully funded scholarship exclusively for Maryland Baseball.
Their commitment didn’t stop there. The Smiths’ seven-figure gift to the Greatness Campaign and their support of the “Home Run Club” have provided invaluable resources for student-athletes and the baseball program.
Carol’s loyalty and vision were recognized in 2020 when she and Bob received the prestigious Jack Heise Award, honoring their unparalleled spirit and support of Maryland Athletics.
Even in Bob’s absence, Carol remains a symbol of dedication, generosity, and quiet leadership.
Her love for Bob and Maryland Athletics continues to fuel the enduring legacy they built together — one that will support future generations of student-athletes and inspire the Maryland community for years to come.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Bob was inducted into the Washington County Sports Hall of Fame in 2003.
- Bob served on the Dean’s Advisory Council for the Robert H. Smith Business School starting in 2010.
- Bob was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity during his time at the University of Maryland.
