Thomas S. Smith

1924 - 2016

October 14, 1924 - February 6, 2016 Spokane Valley Native, Thomas S. Smith was born on October 14, 1924. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Valley pioneers Sidney E. Smith and Isabelle T. Smith and his sister, Jean I. Landa. Thomas S. Smith joined his wife, Thelma L. Smith on February 6, 2016 after taking his final ride on the trail. Tom was raised in Spokane Valley at the family homestead at Sprague and Pines. He met the stunning love of his life, Thelma, while they were attending Central Valley High School. Tom attended Idaho State University from 1943 to 1944, graduating from the V-12 College Navy Training Program. Following his tour of duty in the Navy, Tom graduated from the business school at Harvard. Tom married Thelma on October 4, 1946 and returned to Spokane Valley. For many years, Tom ran Sidney E. Smith Co., the real estate firm established by his father. Never afraid of a challenge, Tom entered law school at Gonzaga University in 1974, passed the bar, and practiced law until he was 89 years old. Tom loved his horses, pack-trips, his ranch, piloting a Cessna and most of all the time he spent at the family's Priest Lake home surrounded by his children and friends. Tom is survived by his daughter Karen L. Foster (Gene), sons Thomas R. Smith (Sheryl) and Scott R. Smith (Vicky) and his grandchildren Kimberly O'Donnell, Karley Willis, Lindsay B. Beal, Nicholas S. Smith and Ashlyn V. Smith. Tom was also blessed with great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. A celebration of Tom's life will be held on March 4, 2016 at 3:00 pm at the Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines Road, Spokane Valley, Washington 99206. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Valley Hospital Foundation or the charity of one's choice.