Dora Gail Smith

Dora Smith Obituary

Dora Gail Smith Our amazing and beautiful Dora Gail Smith flew away from her earthly body Sunday, February, 21, 2010 with loved ones at her side. Born Dora Gail English on March 24, 1948 to parents, Lois and Carmen, she was a life long residen t of Long Beach, CA. Dora Gail was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by many including her two sons, Ras and Carmen; her husband, Richard; her grandchildren, Erica, Bradley and Zachary; along with her brothers, sisters, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Dora sang in Dream, an all-women jazz band that played the Long Beach and Orange County jazz scenes. Over the years she shared the stage and friendship with many jazz greats. She gave the gift of music her whole life singing in class ro oms and starting off numerous would-be musicians with their first guitar lessons. She would reach out and help just about any one in need including total strangers and in doing so, she made oceans of friends. She could find joy in the littlest things and her joy was contagious. She had a song in her heart for every moment of each day and would love it if you sang along. Celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 6, 2010. Contact the family for more information. "If I had wings no one would ask me s hould I fly the bird sings, and no one asks her why. I can see in myself wings as I feel them If you see something else, keep your thoughts to yourself, I'll fly free then." ~ Peter, Paul & Mary (Peter Yarrow and Susan Yardley)

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Published by Press-Telegram on Mar. 5, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Dora Smith

15 Entries

Walt Mc Bride

December 10, 2021

Richard,
I just recently found this. I've wondered about you all for a long time. I can't remember your address so I can't come see you, but I'd love to. If you get this, please contact me at [email protected]. I love you all.
Walt

Rob

June 4, 2010

Beautiful person. Dora came into our classrooms with her gift of music and dreams. Even to a goofy kid, she was obviously generous. She gave us heart. I think of her whenever I hear 500 miles or Edelweiss. Her ethereal songs took us beyond the walls. Thank you Dora. And if you see my mom on your journey, give her a hug for me. You know her.

Fran English

May 4, 2010

Richard, Carmen and Ras. Your wife and mother was a very special person to me and my family. From the age of 7 she was in my family and heart growing up. Memories of her signing and loving music. She had a wonderful voice. Loved her gig's.Sorry I could not make it to the get together. Love you guys. Love Aunt Fran and family

luke and erika smalley

March 8, 2010

Ras, we did not know your mom but i know she was very lucky to have a wonderful generous son like you! lots of love erika and luke.

Kristen

March 6, 2010

So sorry to hear of her passing. My prayers go out to the family. Dora was truely 1 of a kind.

Kristen

March 6, 2010

My prayers go out for the family. Dora was the glue that held them together.

Theresa Borgfield/Blanchard

March 6, 2010

Carmen and Ras, I am very lucky to know your Mom....she was always there for my Boys and me a safe place that Randy could go to when he was pissed of at me.....she is such a happy loving Beautiful Person.....I rember Your Mom thaking you boy to the beach and one time going north by your ants a big stom came in no one went out buy you guys and you Mom was on the beach rooting you boy on.....Charlie was able to meet your Mom one night just sitting aroud leasoning to everone playing and singing it was so moving....I will Never not here your Mom's singing in my head.....Lots of Love to you the Hole Family Charlie & Theresa Blanchard

Donna Butler

March 5, 2010

I never met Dora or any of her family but I heard a lot about her and her singing from a dear man that was a friend of hers. My thoughts and prayers are with all of her family and friends. God Bless

Zach Allen

March 5, 2010

It goes without saying that the Smith family has the love and support of the Allen family.
Gail is an inspiration to us all. It didn't matter if the day was bright and sunny or filled with clouds and rain, Gail always seen the brighter side of life. I personally have some very fond memories growing up around the Smith household.
My heart goes out Richard, Ras and Carmen. If there is anything I can do to help, let me know.

bobo fay

March 5, 2010

so sorry to hear of her passing. i only met her a couple of times but she was classic, a very sweet person. my deepest symathy to her family.

LETTY GONZALEZ

March 5, 2010

Carmen I'm sorry to hear about your loss.I just want you to know I'm here for you and your family if you need anything you can get my number from my sister tina or from johnny reynolds or email me at [email protected] hang in there and try to keep your head up! Shell always be with you and her memories will forever be in your heart! I know how hard it is to lose someone you love and I know how painful it is. I know my words can't make you feel better but I'm here for you! Remember the good times with your mom and how much she love's all you guys and cherish the moments you have here with your loved ones! -your friend letty from 61st & walnut-

Travis Cox

March 5, 2010

My heart and prayers go out to the entire Smith family. I have very fond memories of hanging out at their house and Dora Gail always had a smile to share. Much love to Ras, Carmen and Richard.

March 5, 2010

Her memorial will be held tomorrow (March 6th, 2010) at the home of Michael Zimmerman. (4760 Montair Ave. Lakewood, Ca.) It will begin at 3:00 pm. It will be a celebration of her life, with music, and love.

Joyce Dehart

March 5, 2010

Dora Gail will be missed by many. Her love will live on through our memories.

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