George J. Smith age 78, of Orange, CT, formerly of Stratford, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2023 at St. Vincent's Medical Center.  George was predeceased by his beloved wife of 49 years, Charlotte Smith.

George was born on August 9, 1945 to the late Jacob and Viola Smith. He attended Shelton High School where he played football, baseball, and basketball. It was there, where his love of sports began. After he graduated, he went to serve in the United States Air Force and went on to fight in the Vietnam war.  When he returned home, he met the love of his life, Charlotte, who he wed in 1973.

George worked at Bridgeport Corrections where he was known to everyone as #9.  He worked there for  25 years until retiring in 2001.

George was an avid sports fan, with his utmost favorites being the San Francisco 49ers, Boston Red Sox and the UConn Huskies basketball team. He filled many of his retired days watching his great grandchildren play sports, and cheered them on from the sidelines. When he wasn't rooting on a team, you could find George with a Dunkin' coffee in one hand, and  a cigarette in the other, telling a joke or a story about the past to anyone who would listen.

He loved sneaking away for the night to the casino with his wife, or hosting the entire family for a holiday.  His favorite pastime was being everyone's, "Poppy George''. This role filled him with immense joy.

Survivors include his children, Shirley Ann Eanotti and partner Dan Harney of Stratford, Frank Eanotti  of Stratford,  grandchildren,Nicole and husband John Cannata, Kristin and husband Joel Echevarria and Rachuel and husband Jack Conroy. great- grandchildren, Mya, Damon, Avery, Rocco, Nora, Emmi and Brynn. Goerge was also predeceased by sons, Gilbert Tanguay and Joseph Eanotti.

A graveside service for George will be announced in the spring. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Adzima Funeral Home- Stratford.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Toys for Tots this holiday season. Nothing brought Poppy George more joy than giving out gifts during the holidays.

To leave an online condolence please visit www.adzimafuneralhome.com