Earl Smith III was a great example of someone who was the lifeblood of the University of Rhode Island.
He knew everyone, and he meant something meaningful to everyone. I said this to many people I interviewed for my news story about his passing, but I could have talked to anyone on this campus, and they all would have had something positive to say about Earl as a person. If I did not include you in this piece, I assure you that it was not intentional. There were so many people I missed.
Earl was someone that would do anything for anyone, without question. In fact, questioning would never even cross his mind. He was a person that really cared for you and cared for this community. He was a gem. Earl would hate this opinion column. He did not want praise like this and would never accept these accolades. He deserves it, though, and I want to ensure he is properly recognized.
I cared a lot about Earl. For context, he was my boss. Working in his office for the past four years taught me a lot. He was always ready and willing to give me the scoop for the Cigar. He was never afraid to talk on the record, which is truly a rare quality nowadays. He made an effort to get to know me, sent me basketball and football tickets too often and watched me grow up in many ways.
When I “retired” in December from writing for the Cigar, I swore to myself that I would never write anything for the newspaper again. Not in a bad way, I just knew my time was done. However, I also know that Earl, someone that was so supportive of me as editor in chief and a journalist, would want me to write the piece on his passing. It is one of those things that I just know. He was proud of me, and I am grateful that for the rest of my life, I will get to remember that.
I am very appreciative to all those that were ready and willing to talk to me for this story, as well as those that were not. Your vulnerability and the trust you put in me to do him justice meant so much. To everyone who loved Earl, I am so sorry for your loss, and I am with you.
As nearly every person mentioned in my interviews, Earl’s legacy is critical for the University’s future. He is an indispensable member of the community. He was a person that sought out action and real change, and we all must consider his impact as we move forward without him.
I am proud to have known Earl and privileged to have been in his orbit for a little while. I will miss him, along with everyone else, but I will genuinely try to move through life with the lessons he taught me: be kind; be yourself; and go out and change the world, doctor.