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.<\/p>\n
Smith\u2019s mother, Letha, passed away Feb. 13 at age 88 after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat a special woman, I was very fortunate that God picked her to be my mom. I always tell everybody she was my hero,\u201d Smith said.<\/p>\n
The loss comes after an already difficult stretch. Smith has lost his siblings in the past five years, leaving him without immediate family.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cJust to have a family environment, like this to have boss like Amber and Mark they get it. They understand life happens,\u201d Smith said.<\/p>\n
Though Smith never married or had children of his own, those inside the studio say he\u2019s guided a generation of young musicians.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat\u2019s great is, the kids become your kids, I had a woman awhile back ask me if I had kids and I said yes… 24,\u201d Smith said.<\/p>\n
The outpouring of support has left him grateful.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can\u2019t 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\u2019t thank you enough,\u201d Smith said.<\/p>\n
Smith says his faith is carrying him through the grief.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe way I believe, I\u2019m going to see her again. It\u2019s not goodbye, it\u2019s just see you later,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n