The Smith family has called Bunker Hill Village home since 2013. Rick Smith and his three children, Robert (22), Avery (17), and Christian (16), have built a life here filled with tradition and faith. But behind their story of everyday joys is a deeper layer of resilience. 

Tiffany, the heart of the Smith family as a devoted wife and mother, passed away from breast cancer in 2019. Her family still feels her presence in the strength she showed and the love she gave so freely. Through faith, family, and community, the Smiths carry Tiffany’s spirit forward.

Rick grew up in Petersburg, Virginia, and attended Purdue University, where he played football for the Boilermakers. A strong safety and team captain, he graduated in 1992 with both leadership and discipline already defining his path. After a brief stint coaching at Texas Christian University, Rick began his career in the NFL with the Denver Broncos. He spent 10 years there in coaching and personnel roles before being named the youngest general manager in the league when the Houston Texans hired him in 2006. He went on to serve as the Texans’ General Manager and later Executive Vice President of Football Operations, leading the team through more than a decade of growth and playoff appearances.

It was during these years that Rick met Tiffany. The two crossed paths in Las Vegas, a chance meeting that changed the course of both their lives. After a whirlwind month of late-night phone calls and growing connection, Rick proposed. A year later, they married in a small but meaningful ceremony at the Ocean Club in the Bahamas. “I think anyone who knew Tiffany knew her to be a bright, vibrant, beautiful being," shared Rick. "She was a loving, wonderful mother. She was a dedicated and loyal wife and life partner to me, and so much fun to be around. I didn't love her to death. I love her through death."

Tiffany grew up in California with an early love for music and entertainment. After attending Sweet Briar College and Arizona State University, she built a successful career in production, starting at PolyGram Music Publishing and eventually becoming a senior producer on the Judge Judy Show, where she earned two Emmy nominations. She eventually shifted paths to pursue her true passion as a certified life coach. Her journey, however, took a heartbreaking turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017. Despite a courageous fight, Tiffany passed away in January 2019. 

The Smith children each carry forward their mother’s strength and determination. Robert, a graduate of Strake Jesuit, went on to play football at the University of Maryland and now works for the Atlanta Falcons in client services and suite sales. Avery, a senior at Memorial High School (MHS), is a Texas state champion gymnast and co-founder of *Extraquipment*, a nonprofit that collects and donates used sports equipment to underserved communities. She also works at LHTX Pilates and finds joy in fitness and wellness. Christian, a sophomore at MHS, is passionate about sports and fitness. He plays basketball for both Memorial High School and AAU SWAG Elite, traveling often for tournaments. Off the court, he’s making his mark in the MHS weight room, where he continues to set new records.

Rounding out the family is Gracie, their beloved eight-year-old miniature labradoodle. Gracie’s arrival was serendipitous: the Smiths “won” her at an Inspired Women luncheon where Tiffany was being honored. She remains a treasured reminder of Tiffany’s spirit.

Faith and connection are cornerstones of Rick’s life. His mornings often begin with meditation, prayer, and journaling. Family dinners are a cherished tradition, with the Smiths gathering around the table to reconnect despite busy schedules. They also enjoy cooking at home, dining out at favorites like Carrabba’s and Uptown Sushi, or spending time at the Houstonian Club, where one family member can usually be found at the gym, pool, or a fitness class.

The Smiths share a love of adventure, with Costa Rica standing out as their favorite destination. “It’s the only place we visited twice,” Rick says, recalling the people, the wildlife, and the endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Today, Rick brings his decades of leadership experience in the NFL into a new chapter as a consultant, executive coach, and keynote speaker through his firm, I Am Rick Smith. His program, Exponential Leadership, is designed to help leaders and organizations align, perform, and thrive. Drawing on his own journey of perseverance and growth, Rick works with executives, C-suite leaders, and teams across industries to “Connect more. Inspire more. Win more.” His approach blends practical frameworks with powerful storytelling, guiding others to find balance, rhythm, tempo, and harmony, both professionally and personally.

Beyond his professional work, Rick remains active in Houston’s nonprofit community. He serves on multiple boards and was recently named President of the Board of Directors at Bo’s Place, a grief support center that has been instrumental in his family’s healing.

For Rick, the Villages have always represented peace and belonging. “We lived in Tanglewood for years, but when we decided to move, Tiffany had one request: 77024. She knew this was where she wanted us to be.”

This October, as we honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Smith family’s story reminds us of the importance of cherishing every moment, carrying forward the legacies of those we love, and leaning on community in times of both joy and grief. Tiffany’s spirit continues to shine through Rick, Robert, Avery, Christian, and Gracie, and through the countless lives she touched along the way.