Ploy Smith

With deep love and remembrance, we honor the life of Ploy Smith also known as YiYi. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose life was defined by devotion to family. As the youngest of 14 children, she immigrated to the United States in the early 1970s from Nakhon Sawan, Thailand and was immensely proud to become a naturalized citizen, embracing her new home while honoring her roots.

She shared 43 years of marriage with her husband supporting him as a military wife throughout his military carrier until his retirement. She is survived by her husband Randy, along with her daughter Angela and cherished grandson Robert.

Known as a woman whose hands could grow anything and whose kitchen fed everyone, she was a phenomenal cook. Anything she prepared was delicious, but she was especially known for her traditional Thai dishes, all made from scratch with unmatched skill. She could memorize any recipe by watching someone make it just once. Sharing food was one of the many ways she showed love, and no one ever left her table hungry.

Throughout her life, her garden was another source of pride: she could make anything grow and had a remarkable knowledge of the medicinal purposes of every plant she nurtured. From flowers, citrus trees, fruits, vegetables and herbs, her hands created life wherever she went. She had a deep connection to the outdoors and found peace in her early years fishing, crabbing, and clamming. Though she did not receive a formal education, she was remarkably intelligent and deeply knowledgeable about nature.

A resident of San Diego for more than 39 years, she built a life rich in friendships, family, and memories. Her laughter, quick wit, and sense of humor will echo in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her beautiful smile, strength and the love she gave.