Brian William Smith of Northampton died unexpectedly in Edgartown on Friday, Sept. 8. He was 68.

He was born in Leominster on March 14, 1955, a son of the late Edward W. and Claire R. Cormier Smith. He was raised in the Leominster area.

He received his medical degree from Albany Medical College. He completed his medical internship at Roger Williams Medical Center and his neurology training at Dartmouth Medical Center.

Dr. Smith was board certified in neurology, sleep medicine and vascular neurology. Prior to opening Sleep Medicine Services of Western Massachusetts, he was a staff neurologist at Baystate Medical Center with a faculty appointment at Tufts University School of Medicine.

In 2017, he became one of the founding partners of Achieve TMS East in Massachusetts and served as the chief medical officer for Achieve TMS East and Central. He was actively involved in the Clinical TMS Society and served on the board of directors in addition to education and membership committees.

Brian was a lifelong learner with a deep foundation of medical knowledge. His untraditional path to medicine, compassion and outgoing nature shaped him to be a well-rounded and deeply-humble individual.

In addition to being named to Best Doctors in America, he also had a deep love of music, art and was an avid skier.

He could often be found on Martha’s Vineyard, enjoying life, playing music and getting together with family and friends. He had been visiting the Island for almost 15 years, where he fell in love with the Harborside Inn. He officially became an owner in 2011 and considered the Island another home.

He was genuine, generous, funny, outgoing, witty, articulate, insightful and thoughtful. He loved people and helped them, without fanfare, in countless ways. Throughout his life he took special care of others by making countless trips to visit family, looking after his aunt and uncle, and spending time with his friend and mentor, Julian Janowitz. In time, he became that special combination of family, friend and mentor to so many people.

Brian is survived by his brother, Gary E. Woodward-Smith; nephew, Ian Woodward-Smith; and niece, Erin Blalock. He is grieved by family and many close friends who feel a profound loss and are heartbroken to not see him continue his journey. They are grateful for his companionship and will remember his infectious laughter and unique journey.

His memorial service was held on Sept. 16 and interment was held privately.

Memorial donations may be made to Albany Medical College.