Obituary of Richard Glenn Smith

Richard Smith passed away peacefully on January 25, 2024, at the age of 71 following a prolonged battle with cancer.

Richard was born August 19, 1952 in Amador County. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1970. After graduation, he studied at Sierra College before embarking on his 42-year career at Volcano Telephone Company. In 1977, he married his soulmate, Leslie. Together, they welcomed two beautiful daughters into the world.

Family time was filled with fun and games. Whether playing pool, ping-pong, double solitaire, bowling, or softball Richard always had his game face on and showed no mercy. Classic rock was always blaring on his radio, with Lynard Skynard and Creedence Clearwater Revival at the top of his playlist. Anytime a good band was performing close by, it was guaranteed Richard would be in the audience singing along with his wife and/or daughters by his side.

Richard loved many sports, but baseball was his all-time favorite. He was excited to attend baseball games, no matter who was playing. Bowling was another frequent pastime. He was a league bowler for over 45 years. He dreamed of bowling a perfect 300 game but had to settle for a high score of 298.

Being a girls’ softball coach was Richard’s most valued accomplishment. For over 10 years, he spent countless hours on the field with his daughters. He got pure enjoyment from teaching them and watching them excel. He was passionate about the teams he coached. When his team won, he was elated. When they lost, he showered them with encouragement and support. He was more than just a coach; to some, he became a lifelong friend.

Richard was a very proud grandpa. His granddaughter brought him sheer joy and genuine laughter. He cherished every moment he had with her.

Richard’s warm smile, kindness, sense of humor, and hugs are irreplaceable and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Edith Smith. He is survived by the love of his life, Leslie Smith; devoted daughters, Lindsay Smith and Kimberly Beckwith (Stephen); cherished granddaughter, Lyla Beckwith; supportive sister, Susan Lucke (Jay); caring mother-in-law, Virginia Upton; loyal sister-in-law, Lael Henderson; and many nephews and nieces.

A public visitation will be held at Daneri Mortuary Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 11am-12pm. Family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Richard are invited to gather and pay their respects. At the family’s request, Richard’s burial will be private.

Donations may be made in Richard’s memory to Amador STARS at: 60 Ridge Road, Suite D, Sutter Creek, CA 95685 or amadorstars.org.