Richard "Ricky" Smith's Obituary
Rick Smith, affectionately known as “Ricky” to his older sister, Leni, passed away on June 11, 2026. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Aoy, and his devoted sister, Leni, of Florida, along with many cherished relatives and an extraordinary circle of friends.
Rick grew up in the suburbs of Detroit, where he developed a lifelong love of Motown music, dancing, and the friendships that would shape his outgoing personality. Shortly after graduating from high school, he moved to Florida with his family and began working in the family business in sales. Although he discovered that he had a natural talent for sales, he soon realized his true passion lay elsewhere.
Always ready for a new adventure, Rick spent a memorable chapter of his life as a DJ in Florida’s disco clubs before earning his stockbroker’s license and beginning a successful career in financial services. His warmth, integrity, and ability to connect with people made him a trusted advisor and valued friend to many.
While living in Florida, Rick discovered another lifelong passion—golf. What began as a pastime quickly became a way of life. In 1986, he and his friends made their first golf trip to Maui. From that first visit, he fell in love with the island, its spectacular golf courses, and the spirit of aloha. After years of dreaming and planning, Rick made Maui his home in 2003.
For the final 18 years of his career, Rick proudly served with First Hawaiian Bank, where he built lasting relationships with clients and coworkers alike. He retired in December 2025, leaving behind a reputation for professionalism, dedication, and genuine care to help others.
Golf remained one of Rick’s greatest joys. Among his many golf friends, he proudly earned the unofficial title of “Golf Commissioner,” organizing outings, coordinating tee times, and creating memories that will be treasured for years to come.
When his friends were recently asked to describe Rick, their responses reflected the remarkable man they knew: kind, hardworking, generous, loyal, fun, charming, witty, engaging, competitive on the golf course, a wonderful travel companion, and someone always willing to help others. He had a gift for conversation, an infectious smile, and a way of making everyone feel welcome.
Rick also believed in giving back to his community. He volunteered at numerous PGA golf tournaments, supported Maui Junior Golf, and eagerly anticipated serving as a Citizen on Patrol volunteer with the Police Department during his retirement.
Rick lived life with enthusiasm, curiosity, compassion, and an open heart. Whether helping a client, organizing the next golf outing, traveling with friends, volunteering in his community, or simply sharing a conversation, he had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, appreciated, and important.
To those he loved, Rick never missed an opportunity to say, " love you." Those simple words reflected the way he lived—with generosity, affection, and an open heart.
On the golf course, he often reminded friends, "It doesn't matter what you shoot." For Rick, golf was never just about the score. It was about the camaraderie, the laughter, the stories shared, and the friendships that made every round worthwhile.
His legacy is found not only in the career he built or the accomplishments he achieved, but in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, friendship, and unwavering spirit.
Though he will be deeply missed, Rick's spirit lives on in the love of his wife, Aoy; his sister, Leni; his cousins David & Phil, his many dear friends, colleagues, and extended family: Rob, Jeff, Eddie & Dan, and in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
His memory will forever be a blessing, and his life will remain a beautiful reminder that the greatest measure of success is the love we share, the friendships we cherish, and the lives we touch.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Rick to Maui Junior Golf Association, PO BOX 852 Wailuku, HI 96793
A hui hou—until we meet again.
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