Phillip Joe Smith

About

East Carolina University Western Carolina University

Phillip Smith Obituary

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - A celebration of life will take place Saturday, Jan. 17, in honor of Phillip Joe Smith, who died in a drowning accident Sunday, Jan. 11, 2004, in Mendocino, Calif., while saving a child's life. He was 56. Phil was born May 3, 1947, in Kernersville, N.C. He graduated from East Forsythe High School in Kernersville in 1965 and continued his education at Western Carolina University. He transferred to East Carolina University after his freshman year, and there obtained a bachelor of science degree. Following college he joined the U.S. Navy Reserves for two years and was involved in active duty. After military service, Phil returned to East Carolina University, where he obtained a master's degree in biology and a master's degree in education. He decided to move to Lake Tahoe after completing his studies to partake in outdoor activities, which he loved. He enjoyed camping, golfing and hiking, but his favorite outdoor activity was fishing. His last fish was his biggest ever, a 10-pound trout caught on a New Zealand fishing vacation in December 2003. Phil obtained his real estate license in 1980 and was a successful builder in the Lake Tahoe area. His first love was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 20 years, Lisbeth, and was actively involved in all of his two sons' activities. He never missed one of their sports games or juggling performances. His life revolved around his family, who always took top priority. Phil had an unprecedented love of life and a loving and generous spirit. He is survived by his wife, Lisbeth Smith of South Lake Tahoe; his sons, Christopher Smith, 18, and Nicholas Smith, 13, both of South Lake Tahoe; a sister, Vanda Viehman; a brother and sister-in-law, Ted and Joyce Smith; a brother-in-law, David Masten; his nephews, Ricky and Robbie Smith, all of Kernersville; a mother-in-law, Jytte Eriksen; a sister and brother-in-law, Dr. Thomas and Dr. Kirsten Schmidt; and a brother-in-law, Finn Eriksen, all of Denmark. He was predeceased by a sister, Bobbie; and his parents, William and Stella Motsinger Smith. A memorial service will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at St. Theresa Catholic Church in South Lake Tahoe, immediately followed by a reception at St. Theresa Parish Hall. Phil would love all of his friends to attend. Memorial contributions may be made to the Bailey Johnson Cancer Fund, P.O. Box 612231, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96152.

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

Published by Winston-Salem Journal on Jan. 16, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Phillip Smith

6 Entries

Marilyn Beeson Harrison (East Forsyth class of 1965)

January 28, 2004

When I learned of Phil's death I was filled with sadness. It did not seem possible that such a free spirit like Phil could be gone. I will never forget that smile, his laugh, and his zest for life.

My memories of Phil are mostly the "stories" my husband, Tom (aka) Gwynn and his brother, Glenn have told again and again through the years. Stories of funny high school antics...college escapades. Phil Smith will always be remembered, because once you knew him, you'd never forget him. Even at the time of his death...he was living his life to the fullest by reaching out to help others. He made us all proud.

May Phil's family in Nevada and North Carolina know that "old" friends wish them comfort, peace, and love.

Lynne West Green (Class of '65)

January 27, 2004

I am saddened to hear of the loss of such a great guy; yet not surprised to hear of his selfless act of courage. I remember Phil fondly from those long ago high school days. I will remember Phil's family in daily prayers in the days ahead.

Glenn & Peggy Harrison

January 16, 2004

It is with shock and the deepest sadness that Peggy and I learned of Phil's untimely death. Although we had not been in contact for at least 30 years, we have always considered him to be one of our closest and best friends from elementary school (in Peggy's case) through our high school and university years. We are comforted to know that he had such a rich and rewarding life and a fine family - with two sons that we are sure have all the best qualities of their father. We pray for their (and their mother's) strength to get through this ordeal. Most of all, Peggy and I cannot adequately express how proud we are of this true American Hero and the selfless sacrifice he made to try and save the lives of those two boys. We are all, classmates and friends over the years, so fortunate to have known him. His time on this earth was much too short.

Glenn and Peggy (Stewart) Harrison, East High School Class of '65

Edwin Smith

January 16, 2004

With Deepest Sympathy, Carol & Ed

Brona Vest

January 16, 2004

I was so sorry to hear of Phil's passing...He was a real hero in saving the child's life.

I went to school and church with Phil during our growing up and knew his family well.

My deepest sympathy.

Brona

Tom Harrison

January 16, 2004

Phil Smith was a great friend. Nearly all my few remaining memories of High School include him. He was one fun-loving guy who lived life to the fullest. It is gratifying to know he never really changed and channeled that enthusiasm into his wonderful family and a very successful career. What a tragedy for it to end so abruptly and in the prime of his life. If there can be any consolation in such a loss, it's the way in which Phil died: in a selfless act of courage, sacrificing his own life to save another. Phil Smith is and always will be a true American Hero. He will be sorely missed.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results