Born in Fayette, Missouri, Smith received a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Naval Academy in 1920.

He received a Master of Science from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1928.

He received a Juris Doctor from University of Michigan Law School in 1934.

[1] Smith received a recess appointment from President John F. Kennedy on October 5, 1961, to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, to a new seat created by 75 Stat.

He was nominated to the same seat by President Kennedy on January 15, 1962.