A Trucker’s Final Mile: Saying Goodbye at 82

Nov. 19, 2015Updated Nov. 20, 2015, 2:30 a.m. ET

Retirement After 60 Years

At 82, Dick Smith is retiring from his role as a truck driver after six decades of transporting materials like coal, sand, and stone across the region.

Transitioning Leadership

Although Smith will still act as president of R.W. Smith Trucking and participate in operational decisions, he is passing the driving responsibilities to his son and grandsons.

Early Days in Trucking

Dick began his journey in trucking as a child, learning the trade from his father, who owned a coal-hauling business. Smith started driving legally at 16 but was hands-on well before that, taking on various tasks from truck maintenance to educating new drivers.

Building a Legacy

In 1953, Smith purchased a used truck from his father to establish his trucking business. After a brief Army enlistment, he returned home in 1955 and expanded his fleet.

Resilience in Adversity

Throughout his career, Smith faced challenges head-on, whether it was rebuilding a truck after a fire in 1973 or focusing on recovery after a stroke over a decade ago.

Family Involvement

Finding reliable drivers has been a challenge, but Smith is fortunate to have his son, grandsons Robby and Kevin, and four other drivers to support the business, which operates from the family property in Plumstead.

Struggles with Retirement

Despite his ongoing passion for driving, health concerns have made it necessary for Smith to retire. His son noted that while most people look forward to retirement at 65, Smith is reluctant to step back at 82.

Crissa Shoemaker DeBree: 215-345-3186; email: cshoemaker@calkins.com; Twitter: @CrissaShoemaker