News Summary
Theodore (Ted) W. Smalletz, a well-respected businessman and community leader in Vero Beach, has passed away at the age of 79. Known for his intellect, philanthropy, and dedication to family, Ted leaves behind a lasting legacy. He was deeply involved in various community organizations and contributed significantly to charitable causes during his life. His family remembers him as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, who cherished time spent with loved ones and shared a passion for sports and golf.
Vero Beach, Florida – Theodore (Ted) W. Smalletz, a respected businessman and community leader, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025, at his home in Vero Beach. He was 79 years old and surrounded by family at the time of his passing.
Ted was born on September 9, 1946, in Paterson, New Jersey to Samuel and Amelia (Derr) Smalletz. Known for his keen intellect, dry wit, and gentle demeanor, he embodied the qualities of a true gentleman. His academic excellence was evident early on, as he graduated Valedictorian from Central High School in Paterson in 1964.
He went on to receive a full scholarship to Rutgers University, graduating with a BA in Economics, with Honors in 1968, where he was initiated into Omicron Delta Epsilon, the Honor Society in Economics. In 1983, he furthered his education by earning an MBA in Finance from Seton Hall University while working, and was elected into Beta Gamma Sigma, the Business Honor Society.
Ted’s professional career began at RCA Corporation in New York City as a financial trainee. He held several prestigious roles throughout his career, including:
- Assistant Treasurer and Group Controller at Prentice-Hall, Inc. Publishing Company
- Vice President of Finance for MacMillan Educational Publishing Company in New York City
- Chief Financial Officer at Gloria Duchin, Inc., the family business located in Rhode Island
In 2008, he started a family real estate investment company, which he operated for 15 years until his passing.
Beyond his professional success, Ted was deeply committed to his community. He served as,Chairman of the Board of the Rhode Island affiliate of the American Heart Association, where he played a key role in merging with the Massachusetts operations and was named Volunteer of the Year in 2000 by the New England Affiliate. His community service extended to the Board of Governors at Rhode Island Hospital and the Board of Directors for both the Rhode Island Historical Society and The Community College of Rhode Island. He was also involved in the Student Mentoring Program and contributed to various philanthropic endeavors.
Ted’s philanthropic efforts included support for:
- The Moses Brown School for 25 years
- Hasbro Children’s Hospital
- The Providence Ronald McDonald House
- Rhode Island Historical Society
- Vero Beach Museum of Art
Above all, Ted valued family and cherished time spent with his loved ones. He shared his passion for baseball with his son, Jonathan, with whom he took yearly trips to visit stadiums across the country. Ted was also an avid golfer, belonging to Quidnessett Country Club and Agawam Hunt Club in Rhode Island, and enjoyed playing golf with three generations of his family at Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club. Family gatherings, often centered around food, were a highlight for him, celebrated at the University Club in Providence.
Ted is survived by his wife of 43 years, Robyn; his son Jonathan; daughter-in-law Dania; grandchildren Shayna and Alexander; brother Norman Smalletz; and sister Karen McLaughlin. Services will be private, with arrangements made by Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory in Vero Beach.
In lieu of flowers, donations to a non-profit of choice are encouraged in his memory.
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Vero Beach Remembers a True Family Golfer and Community Leader
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- Google Scholar: Bertha Sharp
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thomas Maggart
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- Google News: Theodore Smalletz
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