Darla June Smith

Darla June Smith (nee Ewell), 76, a resident of Simi Valley for 50 years, passed away Friday, July 13, 2012, after a long illness.

Darla was born in Abilene, Texas to Clara Viola and John Henry Ewell, She is preceded in death by both parents, as well as her sole sibling, Lura Gene Hamilton, and her second son Michael Alan Smith.

Darla was actively involved in her children's activities, including PTA, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts. She was the Founder of the Royal High School Football Booster Association. She taught her children to stand tall and take pride in their family and their community, teaching them to give back to others. She was a tireless community advocate, often saying, "oh, yes, you can fight City Hall." Some of her accomplishments include service on the Executive Board of the Bicentennial Committee and Rancho Simi Park Amphitheater; as President of Simi Valley Community Council; on the Executive Board of Simi Valley Free Clinic; and on the Executive Board of Simi Valley Care and Share.

She often carried food and gifts to needy families during the holidays.

Darla served in multiple capacities in the California Federation of Women's Club, Terra Adorada District.

Darla is survived by her husband of 56 years, Gary M. Smith, and their surviving five children, Cheri (Wally) Wolentarski; Gary (Melissa) Smith; Sue Ellen Smith; Jon (Karyn) Smith; and Sharla Smith, as well as six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A funeral service is planned for 4 p.m. on Monday, July 23, 2012, at Reardon Simi Valley Funeral Home, 2636 Sycamore Drive, Simi Valley, CA 93065, reception to follow at 5:30 p.m, at the Boys & Girls club in Simi Valley. Internment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Simi Valley Free Clinic, 2060 Tapo Street, Simi Valley, CA 93063.