Mr. Smith received a master's degree from the University of Michigan. He began his career as a high school speech teacher and later served as a regional director for the American Red Cross.
In 1963, he was named executive vice president of the National Association of Life Underwriters, having been a general agent for almost three decades.
In recognition of his distinguished service and achievement, he was given the highest individual honor accorded by the life insurance profession, in 1970.