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Richard Smith Obituary

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.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Sep. 12 to Sep. 14, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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September 18, 2014

Mr. Smith,
You were a wonderful Principal and I enjoyed working with you at Ulloa ES. Rest in Peace. Mrs. Jay

Bobby Rainey

September 15, 2014

Lots of wonderful memories with you Uncle Smitty.So glad I had the chance to talk to you and tell you I Love You. I will miss you dearly.

Amanda Rainey

September 15, 2014

uncle smitty you be will truly miss..May god give our family strength at this of sorrow..Luv u Uncle

Sidney Smith

September 14, 2014

Thank you Uncle Smitty for demonstrating the value of a proper education. I will never forget your kindness and encouragement. May you rest in peace.

September 14, 2014

I'm so sorry to hear of Mr. Smith's passing. I worked with him at Ulloa Elementary for 10yrs. He loved the children and they loved and respected him. He was kind, personable and caring.
RIP....Mr. Miff
Liz

September 14, 2014

Mr. Smith was my principal at Ulloa Elementary School in SF. He loved the children and they loved and respected him. He taught me so much. He was fair, tolerant, empathic and so caring.
We worked together for 10yrs, and he made every day a good one. RIP....Mr. Miff
You were the best! Liz

September 14, 2014

Prayers to the family from Mr. And Mrs. Espiritu.

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