Eric was born on the 18th May 1932 to Walter and Grace Smith.

'Sonny' as the family called him, was the youngest of six children, Bill, Pally, Roy, Winnie and Barbara were his older siblings.

Eric worked from a very young age, taking vegetables to those who were in need at a reduced price as they had not been sold from the horse and cart his father had to deliver groceries. In his early teens he had a paper round and biked some of the steepest hills in Ipswich to deliver the early mornin papers. There was not much time for play as his older brothers were keen to show him skills and have him assist in the much needed chores.

Eric had fond memories of a cylinder radiogram, which some of the songs he could recall and sing, especially John, John go and put your trousers on! Another one was 'My Bonnie Lassie'.

Turners was Eric's first full-time job, learning the trade of carpentry, the tools he brought cost more than his weekly wage. 

It was in his late teens that courted Mary, biking, bowling and their much favored activity dancing, perfecting the jive which they dance well into their 80's, when their knees allowed! Eric was called to do National Service, before he went into service he wished to make sure he that he married Mary and on the 1st August 1953, Eric and Mary were married, they married for just over 70 years and remained very much love, always holding hands.

National Service was stationed in Sufflok, regular bike rides before Breakfast to see his wife, included then biking to Felixstowe, roller skating and then biking all the way back, unless he was lucky to have a lift with the sergeant. 

After National Service Eric joined Cranfields Flour Mill, he worked his way to Chief Maintenance Engineer giving over 45 years of service, during this time Eric redesigned machinery that was used all over Europe. Eric's skills were endless, he was much admired and respected by his colleagues and the many employees he managed.

Mary and Eric waited eight years before their first and only daughter was born, Tracey was the apple of her Dad's eye and their relationship was incredibly unique, sharing many special moments. A son Andrew followed just over three years later and then much to their surprise another son David come along. Andrew and David learnt many skills from their Dad. There were many family holidays, days out, Eric worked incredibly hard to provide for his wife and family to give them so much. His kind loving nature was center of the family.