R. Clint Smith, a respected Texas lobbyist whose career covered 27 legislative sessions, died Sept. 8. He was 82.

HillCo Partners announced Smith's death on the firm's website and on LinkedIn. The firm did not announce a cause of death.

Smith began his career at the Texas Capitol in 1973. He first worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Co., and later AT&T. He joined HillCo Partners in 1998 and remained with the firm until retiring in 2023 to spend more time with his family.

His career spanned 54 years and made him one of the most experienced government affairs professionals at the Texas Capitol.

Smith's work with HillCo also connected him to TEXPERS. HillCo Partners serves as the association's government affairs consulting firm and helps TEXPERS follow legislation and public policy affecting Texas public retirement systems. Eddie Solis is TEXPERS' government affairs consultant. 

In a news release, Neal T. "Buddy" Jones, co-founder of HillCo Partners, remembered Smith as a trusted colleague and friend.

"He was smart, thoughtful, steady under pressure and, above all, a man of tremendous character," Jones said.

Jones said Smith helped clients understand the often-complex workings of Texas government, adding that Smith approached his work with honesty and integrity.

Smith also earned the respect of people across the state's government affairs community. The Quorum Report noted his death and highlighted his long career at the Capitol.

HillCo remembered Smith not only for his professional skill but also for his friendship, humor and steady nature.

"Texas has lost a true gentleman, a great public advocate and a very good friend," Jones said.

Funeral arrangements were pending when HillCo announced Smith's death.

Smith died surrounded by family, according to an obituary. A celebration of life was held Sept. 19 at LifeFamily Austin, and a second remembrance was scheduled for 2 p.m. on Sept. 27 at Eagle’s Trace Retirement Village in Houston. In lieu of flowers, the family asked that memorial donations be made to LifeFamily Church.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Pamela Smith, four children, grandchildren and a great-grandson.

About the Author: Allen Jones is the director of communications and event marketing for TEXPERS, where he leads editorial strategy, member communications, conference marketing, and digital engagement initiatives for Texas public employee retirement systems. He began his journalism career in 1998 and has worked in journalism and communications for more than 25 years.