May 25, 1940 – April 22, 2023
Stephen S. Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community volunteer, passed away on April 22, 2023, at the age of 82 in Jacksonville, Oregon. Born on May 25, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, Stephen was the oldest of three brothers and lived a remarkable life filled with love, service, and adventure. After graduating from Monmouth College in Illinois in 1962, Stephen embarked on a noble path of service to his country. He joined the Navy later that year and served honorably until 1966. It was during his time in the Navy that he cultivated a deep sense of duty and developed valuable skills that would shape his character for the rest of his life.
In 1967, Stephen married the love of his life, Liz, and together they settled in Southern California, building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. They were a true team, supporting each other through thick and thin, and their bond grew stronger with each passing year. In 1982, Stephen and Liz made the decision to relocate their family to Southern Oregon, seeking a change of pace and new opportunities. They embraced the natural beauty of the region and found a new home in the welcoming community. In 1992, they moved to Jacksonville, Oregon where they quickly became an integral part of the fabric of the town. Stephen’s passion for community service led him to actively volunteer and participate in local organizations, particularly the Rotary and Lions Clubs. He dedicated countless hours to helping others, working tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of those around him. His dedication and selflessness were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Beyond his commitments to service, Stephen had a zest for life. He had an insatiable curiosity and a love for learning. He relished the opportunity to travel, embracing new cultures and making connections with people from all walks of life. Stephen’s genuine interest in others made him a wonderful listener and a cherished friend. Stephen is survived by his loving wife, Liz, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and devotion. His memory will forever be cherished by his two daughters, Kimberly (Michael Wisnovsky) and Caroline (Brian Shea), who carry forward his legacy of kindness and compassion. He was also a proud and doting grandfather to his five grandchildren, Ethan, Gabriella, Gretchen, Stephen, and Meredith, who brought immeasurable joy to his life.
A celebration of Stephen’s remarkable life will be held July 30th from 3 to 5pm at Valley View Winery. It will be an occasion to honor his memory, share stories, and find solace in the collective love and support of family and friends. In keeping with Stephen’s spirit of giving, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Lions Club or any volunteer organization close to your heart. Stephen S. Smith will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to others will be remembered as a shining example of a life well-lived. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire us to make a difference in the lives of those around us.