LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – For 14 years, Robert Smith has poured himself into students at School of Rock Lubbock. This month, the community he helped build is returning the favor.
Smith’s mother, Letha, passed away Feb. 13 at age 88 after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.
“What a special woman, I was very fortunate that God picked her to be my mom. I always tell everybody she was my hero,” Smith said.
The loss comes after an already difficult stretch. Smith has lost his siblings in the past five years, leaving him without immediate family.
Co-owner Amber Beadles responded by launching a GoFundMe to help cover hospice and funeral costs, a gesture Smith says reflects the family atmosphere at the studio.
“Just to have a family environment, like this to have boss like Amber and Mark they get it. They understand life happens,” Smith said.
Though Smith never married or had children of his own, those inside the studio say he’s guided a generation of young musicians.
“What’s great is, the kids become your kids, I had a woman awhile back ask me if I had kids and I said yes… 24,” Smith said.
The outpouring of support has left him grateful.
“I can’t say how grateful I am enough that these people, Amber and the school of rock stood behind me. To everyone who has given and going to give I can’t thank you enough,” Smith said.
Smith says his faith is carrying him through the grief.
“The way I believe, I’m going to see her again. It’s not goodbye, it’s just see you later,” he said.
Donations can be made on GoFundMe.
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