PORTLAND – Edward Clifton Smith, 69, of Arundel, died quietly Tuesday, Sept. 13, at Maine Medical Center after a long battle with cancer, with his partner of many years, George Doyle, by his side.

He was born in Jonesboro on July 1, 1936, the son of Robert C. and Lila (Mawhinney) Smith. Known to his family as “Ardie,” after graduating from Jonesboro High School he attended Emerson College, New England Conservatory of Music and graduated from North Bennet Industrial School with a degree in timeology.

His career spanned 40 years, beginning at McKenney’s Jewelry Store in Machias. In 1964, he moved to the greater Portland area, where he worked as a watch repairman at Day’s Jewelry Store, until his retirement in 2002.

His interests included astronomy, traveling, the ocean, old radio and television programs, his pets and his family. He loved music, and was a gifted singer and musician.

He is survived by the following family, George Doyle of Arundel; Richard and Robin Smith of Falmouth; David “Mike” and Joyce Smith of Monmouth; Mark Smith and Shelley Anderson of Monmouth; and Marilyn and David Churchill of Minot. He is also survived by several nephews, nieces, cousins and aunts.