Leighton-Smith-Obituary

Leighton Warren Smith Jr.

Mobile, Alabama

1939 - 2023

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DIED
November 28, 2023
LOCATION
Mobile, Alabama

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Admiral Leighton Warren Smith, Jr., USN (Ret) passed away at his home in Pinehurst, NC on 28 November 2023 at the age of 84 due to complications associated with Parkinson's Disease. Admiral Smith, known to friends and his Navy colleagues as "Snuffy," was born in Mobile, Alabama in 1939. His...

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I was a classmate of "Snuffy" in 1959. We had many conversations. He went on to be a hero, and I to drive a bread truck for 36 years. He was everything everyone said, and everyone respected his humanity. I will never forget him.

Please accept my deepest condolences for you loss. I was a crew member of the U.S.S.Kalamazoo(AOR-6) when he was our CO. Since then,I've made some career changes which resulted in change of what branch I eventually retired from. Long live his memory

Very sorry for your loss. Somehow, we didn't hear about this until today when we heard about services tomorrow at Annapolis. Sir Snuffy and Dottie's leadership and example will always be special to us. Our AFSOUTH experience was the highlight of our career in the Navy. His example and guidance encompassed all the qualities I try to live up to. Love and warmest wishes, Leo and Moe Desrosiers

My deepest condolences to Adm Smith´s family. He comes from Navy royalty in my opinion. My dad was Flag Pilot for his uncle, Adm HP Smith who helped me get into the Naval Academy class of 1971. I played golf with him and his uncle at the Redwing golf course in Virginia Beach when he was a CAPT aviation detailor. He was a true gentleman and combat hero with Teflon armor (according to his uncle). May God help him rest in peace.

Our commander will be remembered in the most positive way. As a new sailor in squadron VA-86 , I was impressed by then commander Smith´s respectful attitude. I felt like I was part of the best team in the Navy. For some strange reason Commander Snuffy Smith crossed my mind. I´m sad to see this notice. He was well liked by all. My condolences.

Dottie and FamilyNancy and I are saddened by the loss of the Admiral (Sir Snuffy)! Lot’s of great memories and stories! He was a great leader, mentor, pilot, and ship driver! God Bless the Smith FamilyBear/Nancy Pickavance

Friends since Plebe Summer at USNA, "Snuffy" was always a supporter and mentor. Unfortunately, the last time I spoke to him was over the ship-to-ship communication line in 1982 when he was CO of USS Kalamazoo and I was conning the USS Independence (CV-62) alongside during an underway replenishment (UnRep) in the Mediterranean. He was loved and respected by all who knew him. Fair Winds and Following Seas old friend! RIP, Snuffy!!

Dottie- Kelly and I were very saddened to learn about Snuffy´s passing. He was a truly wonderful leader throughout every challenge he met. I feel deeply privileged to have served with him and to have known him as a Shipmate and as a friend. Please know that we are keeping you and your family in our prayers as you go through this difficult time. Be well and take good care. Denny and Kelly McGinn

My condolences on your families loss. I knew him as a young Machinists Mate 2nd class on the Kalamazoo. He was a great leader, every member of the crew felt valued. We would have followed him where ever he led us. The leadership and values he instilled in the crew are still with me today. Outside of my immediate family "Captain" Smith taught me more about leadership and service then anyone else. May you take great comfort in his accomplishments and service to his communities and...