Dr. Mark Weston Smith, 66, of St. Petersburg, Florida, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, service, and dedication to his family, his patients, and his community.
Born in Seymour, Indiana, Dr. Smith’s journey was one of lifelong learning and selfless giving. After graduating from Seminole High School, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Florida State University. His passion for eye care led him to pursue a second Bachelor’s Degree in Physiological Optics and a Doctorate in Optometry from Southern College of Optometry, where he also completed an internship in Ocular Disease at VEF Eye Center at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City.

Returning to his hometown, Dr. Smith began his career in private practice before becoming the Center Director for an ocular disease and surgery referral center with Omega Health Systems. Eventually, he settled in St. Petersburg, where he spent over 30 years serving patients at Suncoast Medical Clinic. A devoted and highly respected Optometrist, he was a member of the American Optometric Society, the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association, and the International Sports Vision Association.

Outside of his profession, Dr. Smith was an avid fisherman and sportsman who found joy in the great outdoors. He was also a man of deep faith, active in his church, and always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Mark is survived by his loving wife, Anita Rodrigues-Smith; his daughter, Jentry Smith; his mother, Doris Smith; his sister, Linda (William) Hess; his brother, Bret (Lisa) Smith; his cherished nieces, Avery, June, and Zelie, and nephews, Zane, Henry, Loren, Francis, and Merit. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Alivia (Alex) Hart and Shelbie Seay, and his beloved step-grandsons, Callan and Liam Hart. He was preceded in death by his father, RK Smith. He will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and the love he poured into his family, leaving them with a lifetime of cherished memories.

A celebration of his life will be held on April 5th, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in Dr. Smith’s honor, supporting research and those affected by the disease.

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