Early Life and Background
Greggory William Smart was born on September 4, 1965, in Nashua, New Hampshire. Raised in a loving suburban family, Gregg was the son of William J. Smart and Judith Ann Belliveau. He had at least one sibling, Ricky J. Smart, and possibly another named Dean J. Smart. Gregg’s childhood included playing Little League baseball, where his team won the championship in 1977. His father, Bill, nostalgically recalled these achievements with pride.
Education and Career Pursuits
After graduating from Londonderry High School in 1983, Gregg pursued further education in Rhode Island. By the late 1980s, he had established himself as a successful insurance agent in Derry, New Hampshire, a career he approached with dedication and excellence.
Meeting Pamela and Family Life
In 1986, a holiday party introduced Gregg to Pamela Wojas, leading to a romance rooted in their mutual love for heavy metal music. Supporting Pamela during her studies, Gregg briefly relocated to Florida before the couple married on May 7, 1989. They settled in Derry, New Hampshire, along with their Shih Tzu named Halen, embarking on a promising, suburban life.
The Tragedy of May 1, 1990
On May 1, 1990, Gregg’s life was brutally cut short when he was found shot in the head at his home, initially believed to be a botched burglary. At only 24 years old, Gregg Smart became a victim, symbolizing the abrupt and violent interruption of ordinary life.
Investigation and Unveiling the Conspiracy
The investigation revealed a disturbing plot when it emerged that Pamela had been involved in a sexual relationship with 15-year-old William “Billy” Flynn, a high school sophomore. Evidence indicated that Pamela allegedly coerced Flynn into murdering her husband, promising and withholding affection based on his actions. Flynn, along with accomplices Patrick Randall, Vance Lattime Jr., and Raymond Fowler, executed the plan.
Arrests and Legal Proceedings
Pamela Smart was arrested on August 1, 1990, charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy. Following a gripping trial, she was convicted on March 22, 1991, receiving a life sentence without parole. Flynn entered a plea deal for second-degree murder, earning parole eligibility after 25 years, eventually paroled in 2015. Randall, Lattime Jr., and Fowler served sentences ranging from 12 to 30 years, with parole granted between 2003 and 2015.
Gregg Smart’s Family: Coping with Loss
Parents: William and Judith Smart
William and Judith Smart were shattered by their son’s untimely death. Bill often reminisced about Gregg’s childhood, holding onto positive memories to navigate the grief. Judith passed away in 1998.
Siblings and Extended Family
Gregg’s surviving siblings, Ricky J. Smart, and potentially Dean J. Smart, were left to grapple with the tragedy. Dean eventually penned a memoir titled Skylights and Screen Doors, reflecting on the impact of Gregg’s death.
Aunt Debbie Smart
Debbie Smart expressed anxiety and sadness at parole hearings, especially for Patrick Randall, noting the murder’s enduring impact on their family.
Uncle Jim Smart
Uncle Jim Smart remained vocal against Pamela’s parole unless she admits to orchestrating Gregg’s murder, emphasizing accountability and seeking justice.
Cousin Val Fryatt
During parole hearings, Cousin Val Fryatt bemoaned Gregg’s missed prospects and unrealised potential, highlighting the family’s emotional toll.
Media Coverage and Public Impact
Pamela Smart’s trial captivated the nation, being one of the first to be broadcast gavel-to-gavel. The case inspired various books such as Teach Me to Kill and led to films including To Die For, starring Nicole Kidman, and TV specials on 20/20 and Investigation Discovery.
FAQ
Who was Greggory Smart?
Greggory Smart was a promising young insurance agent who met a tragic end due to a conspiracy involving his wife and her teenage lover.
How did Greggory Smart die?
Gregg was killed execution-style on May 1, 1990, as part of a murder plot orchestrated by his wife Pamela and her teenage lover.
Why was Greggory Smart murdered?
Using their illicit relationship, Pamela Smart forced William Flynn to murder to end her marriage.
Were the perpetrators convicted?
Yes, Pamela Smart was sentenced to life without parole, while Flynn and other accomplices received varying sentences with eventual parole.
How is Gregg Smart’s family coping?
Gregg’s family remains deeply affected, focusing on positive memories while advocating for justice and accountability from the conspirators.
