Richard Smith Jr.

Richard Allen Smith, Jr. (Smitty)

Passed peacefully at his home in Windsor, CA on August 30, 2014 surrounded by people who loved him. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Catherine Smith, his brother, Robert Smith, and his sister, Ida Smith. He is survived by his devoted wife, Maryann Cavallo-Smith; his first wife, Theresa Smith and their loving children, Richard (Ricky) Smith, Atheria Smith, Josephine Gibson and her husband Travis; and his two grandchildren, Marsalis and Pillar Gibson. His sisters, Catherine Burford and Ina Rae Brasfield, also survive him. His extended family of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, godchildren and long and treasured friends grieve his passing.

Richard was born in Galveston, Texas and spent his happy childhood traveling among Galveston, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Vallejo. Certainly that was the root for his love of travel. After high school, he attended Fisk University before joining the Army and serving active duty in the Korean Conflict. That experience taught him the value of being an American and the sacrifices that are made for freedom. He came home to finish his education at the University of San Francisco on his GI Bill, raising three wonderful children while working in the U.S. Postal Service. He completed his Master's Degree at San Francisco State University. Richard entered the field of education in 1967 and stayed devoted to his profession for 30 years. He served San Francisco Unified School District as a community liaison, teacher, principal and coordinator of human resources. He was responsible for organizing the first integrated bussing program in 1972, was active in the California Schoolmasters' Club and was honored as the School Master of the year in 1995. He touched many lives as an educator and the world is a better place for him.

Richard had two passions, golf and travel. He was a long time member of the Golden Gaters Golf Club and developed his longest and most meaningful friendships through those rounds of golf. He had a drive to live life to the fullest and loved adventure. He was always ready for the next trip, the next new restaurant or the challenge of a new course. Life granted him a long retirement to enjoy his passions.

Richard was a gentle, good man, a devoted husband, a loving father, a kind brother, and a trustworthy friend. He touched many lives with love and support and in return was loved and respected by all who knew him. He died as he lived with strength, dignity, grace and love.

A funeral mass and reception will be held on Monday, September 22 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 43148 Mission Blvd., Fremont, CA. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.