Arthur E. Smart

Arthur Evan “Art” Smart, age 79, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, in Rochester, New York, from complications of Parkinson’s disease. 

Art was born on February 18, 1947, in Oakland, California, to Gertrude and Bret Smart. He grew up in California and went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Davis, followed by an MBA from the University of California, Berkeley. 

Art built a successful career in the Business Research Consumer Products Division at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, New York, where he was respected for his intelligence, professionalism, and thoughtful approach to his work. 

A talented athlete, Art played basketball in college and remained a devoted sports fan throughout his life. He especially loved college basketball, football, and fantasy football, where his competitive spirit and keen knowledge of the game often led him to success. He was also passionate about golf and enjoyed following and playing the game whenever he could. 

Art loved to travel, exploring destinations across the United States and around the world. More than anything, he cherished opportunities to visit family and friends, creating lasting memories wherever he went. 

Known affectionately as the “Mayor” of his senior living community, Art had a remarkable gift for connecting with people. He greeted everyone he met with a smile, a joke, or a conversation. He knew the names of residents, staff, visitors, and even all of the neighborhood dogs. His warmth, curiosity, and genuine interest in others made people feel seen and valued. 

Art remained active throughout his life, often walking two miles a day. He had a big heart, a quick wit, and a signature sarcastic sense of humor that brought laughter to those around him. He especially loved spending time with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. 

Art is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Lynn Smart; his daughters, Shannon (Jeff) and Carly (Steve); his stepdaughter, Michelle; and his stepson, David. He was a proud grandfather to Joseph (Makenzie), Jennifer, Izzy, Julia, Jack, Rose, and Hugo. He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Kennedy and Parker. Art is survived by his sister, Jan Adams. His brother, Wesley Smart, survived him, but passed away shortly thereafter. Art was preceded in death by his sister, Clare Gunther. 

Art’s kindness, humor, generosity, and ability to make friends wherever he went left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the countless conversations he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the love he gave so freely to family and friends. 

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. The family welcomes those who knew and loved Art to remember him in their own way and to celebrate the qualities he embodied throughout his life: kindness, humor, generosity, and genuine connection with others. 

We invite family and friends to join for a celebration of Art’s life: Monday, June 29th 3pm-6pm, Legacy Clover Blossom, Living Room, 100 McAuley Dr, Rochester, NY 14610