Peter Matthew Smith

Peter Matthew Smith, 89, of Kiln, MS, passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Gulfport, MS.

Peter had an eclectic personality, varied background, and would consider himself a lifelong student. He received many degrees; Physics was his first love, followed by nursing, Spanish, computer science, genetics, and mathematics. He enjoyed music of all sorts, but most notably, musicals and acapella singing. He brought his voice to the forefront through his participation in the Annunciation and St. Clare church choirs. Peter also practiced the piano and took advantage of any opportunity to showcase his trumpeting talent. He began playing trumpet in the drum and bugle corps, for which he always held a deep appreciation. When he wasn’t busy with those endeavors, Pete was a HAM radio operator (call name Papa Zulu), jogger, tennis and blackjack player, golf caddy, motorcyclist, auto mechanic and professional tinkerer.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Elenora Smith, and father, John Bernard Smith, of Beverly Farms, Massachusetts, along with his brother-in-law, Jack Reilly and nephew, Jeffrey Reilly.

Peter is survived by two daughters Rebecca Smith and Holly Boyd along with her husband, Jason Boyd of Long Beach, Mississippi. He was the proud grandparent of six: John Liang, Cecilia Hartenstine, Quinn Hartenstine, Cameron Hartenstine, Courtney Boyd, and Christopher Boyd. His daughters fondly remember their annual summer camping trips with Peter when they towed the pop-up camper. The goal was to visit every one of the continental United States, and they came close to reaching it. Peter took every experience as a learning opportunity for both himself and the girls, stopping, much to his daughters’ chagrin, at every historical marker along their route. Peter was married to Sandie Bowring of Biloxi, Mississippi and Sandy Smith who now resides in Florida. Peter’s younger sister, Gail Reilly, remained above the Mason / Dixon, currently in Massachusetts. Peter is also survived by Gail’s two daughters, Tara Norris and Kristen Lundstedt, as well as her son David Reilly.

Last, but definitely not least, Peter was a scientist at heart and loved the ocean. He enjoyed recreational sailing as part of his upbringing in Massachusetts and later developed this love for the sea into a career in Oceanography. He worked for the oceanography branch of NRL at Stennis test site for a good 20 years. Previous to working as an Oceanographer, he served in the Navy, active duty, later transitioning to a reservist. He wore his uniform proudly and has chosen to memorialize his Navy career at his final resting place, the Biloxi National Cemetery.

There was never a boring moment in Peter’s presence. His life of learning allowed any topic to be raised for discussion (usually a lengthy one no less)! His spirit remains alive in the hearts of all who had the fortune of knowing him. He had a kind heart, was generous to those less fortunate, and led a life to be proud of.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025 at Annunciation Catholic Church Chapel in Kiln, MS from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m.  Inurnment to follow at 1:30 p.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery in Biloxi, MS.

Edmond Fahey Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Peter Matthew Smith.