Mario “Smiley” Smith was born on October 30, 1946, to Ms. Ann Smith on the island of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

Mario was a quiet, unassuming man. He embodied courage, loyalty, compassion, and discipline. He was a well-respected, personable man and loving dad.

Mario served in Vietnam, where he received a Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Achievement in Ground Operations Against Hostile Forces.

Mario was an avid, talented ball player and coach. Those who played ball with him learned the type of man he was on the ball field. There were some pitchers who were afraid to pitch to him because he could have hit anything.

In 1973, he joined the Virgin Islands Fire Department. Mario was known in the fire department for his no-nonsense personality, hard work, dedication, cooking skills, and firm, sturdy hand while taking charge. He touched the life of every firefighter that he came in touch with. He was well-liked by his friends and his coworkers. Mario was so dedicated to being a firefighter that he would even support his fellow firefighters when he was off duty or those outside of his district. Mario protected his fellow firefighters at the station and while out in the field protecting life and property.

Mario rose through the ranks of the Virgin Islands Fire Department, where he became a lieutenant before his untimely passing in 1993 at the tender age of 46.

Mario left behind five children, family, firefighter family, baseball family, friends, and loved ones that miss him dearly and daily.

Mario will forever be remembered for the bravery and courage he showed while fighting fires and his illness, always lending a helping hand and never feeling sorry for himself.