To the Editor:

Ken Smith was someone I got to know, respect and deeply love in this, his last year. On Sept. 12, several days after successful heart surgery, we lost him in spite of his condition that was improving daily. God really does work in mysterious ways. The problem is He doesn’t let us know in advance what His plans are. I wish He did with Ken. It just happened too suddenly. None of us were ready when the phone rang.

Ken was the “elder statesman” of the Warwick Democratic City Committee and he was the kindest and most giving of them all. He had the sense of humor that can only come from 20+ years as a Navy chef (They called him “Smitty”). He was more devoted to his wife of 40+ years than any husband I have ever known, calling her several times each day and acting like a school-boy in her presence, gazing at her with a puppy-love look on his face. His son Russell was constantly by his side. Ken was the best father Russ, or any son, could ever have had. In my life I have never known a closer family unit. Being around them is something I will treasure forever.

I remember Ken because I spoke with him almost every day. If I didn’t call him he would call me. I learned so much about Warwick politics from Ken and every conversation ended with him telling me to ask for more advice tomorrow. He was always so happy to help. It left a permanent mark on me. He spoke from experience that went back 30, 40 and even 50 years.

And he always taught me the newest political lesson with a chuckle that can’t be impersonated but was always in his voice. He would tell about someone from the “Joe Walsh era,” lean back on his chair and out would come the unforgettable “Heh, heh, heh, heh ” Ken Smith chuckle.

Lots of people say they want to help you. Ken Smith insisted on it, and he refused any and all reciprocation. Hearing “thank you” seemed to actually make him feel a little uncomfortable.

And he always, always gave his time, his caring wisdom and especially his humor without hesitation. Ken was a dear friend to us all. I aspire to be just half as loved by just half as many people as he was. To me that would be the greatest accomplishment of my lifetime.

Rest in peace, Kenny. I will never forget you. None of us will.

Richard Corrente

Warwick