Herbert Briggs Smith

Herbert Briggs Smith, 81, of Fairfield passed away peacefully on February 14, 2024, with his family by his side. He was the  beloved husband of 61 years to Ann (Annie) L. Barich Smith. Herb was born in Huntington, NY, on August 14, 1942, to the  late Warren Sales and Eleanor Cooper Smith.  

Herb grew up in New Canaan, CT, attending local schools. He attended Franklin & Marshall College and graduated from the  University of Connecticut. After meeting and marrying Ann, the couple moved around the country as Herb’s career  progressed in the insurance and pension business, first with MONY in New York; Columbus, Ohio; Chicago; and  Washington, DC. He then worked for Willis of New York in New York, as Vice President of Employee Benefits Practice until  his retirement.  

A long-time Fairfield resident, Herb was active in the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church community, serving in many leadership  positions and lending a helping hand to make the church community a welcoming place for all. Herb was happiest being in  nature, being outside in his vegetable garden or identifying various species of birds and other animals. He loved hiking the  Audubon trails pointing out the intricacies of the natural world or sitting on a bench at Silver Sands State Beach boardwalk in  Milford, binoculars in hand, enjoying shore birds and migrations. Eagle spotting and swallow migration watching on the  Connecticut River with friends was a particular joy. And when it came to gardening his family looked forward to some of the  best eggplant parmigiana ever! Watching his grandchildren dig for potatoes or helping them to identify a butterfly, bug or  critter would make his day — he knew them all. He was a #1 fan of the UCONN women’s basketball team.  

In addition to his wife Annie, Herb is survived by his three children and their spouses; Jason (Maura) of Milford; Julie (Kurt)  Sanwald of Milford; Matthew (Aileen) of Smith’s, Bermuda. Herb also leaves his treasured grandchildren: Ben Fusco, Brett  Smith, Abby Sanwald, Jacob Sanwald, Drew Smith and Violet Smith. He also leaves his two brothers: Curtis (Ann) Smith of  Manchester, NH; and Warren (Ann Marie) Smith of Bosque Farms, NM; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.  

Family and friends are invited to attend A Celebration of Life service at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 661 Old Post Rd.,  Fairfield, on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 11am., with a reception to follow in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers Memorial  contributions may be made to the Connecticut Audubon Society, 

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