Terry Lee Smith

TERRY LEE SMITH was born July 24, 1949 in San Diego, California to Willard and Margaret Smith. Both of his parents preceded him in death. He received his formal education through the San Diego Unified School District, graduating from Lincoln High School with the “Class of 1968”. While at Lincoln, Terry was a member of the swim team, and received his lettermen jacket that he proudly wore. He was also a member of the JROTC, which would play a major part in his future endeavors.

In 1969, Terry followed his dream by enlisting in the United States Army, where he served admirably during the Vietnam Conflict. While serving his country, Terry earned numerous medals and commendations including the Meritorious Service Medal, the National Defense Medical w/Bronze Service Star/Vietnam Service Medal and Expert Badges in hand grenades and 45 caliber pistols. Terry retired in 1992, after twenty-three years of service of excellence.

Following his retirement from the Army, Terry joined the Department of Defense, where he served as a federal police officer for seventeen years before retiring in 2009.

While settling into retirement, Terry became a volunteer in the JROTC program at Gompers Jr. High School and his “alma mater”, Lincoln High School. He always said that he was a “Hornet” for life. He greatly enjoyed working with the children, especially helping them with their drills.

Terry was a devoted husband to his beautiful soul mate, Blanch and he dearly loved his three daughters: Stella, Christina and Terri and a doting grandfather to his grandchildren. He strongly believed in the family unity. He enjoyed listening to talk shows and sports on the radio, especially baseball. His most favorite pastime was spending quality time with family, watching a movie or just sitting outside talking.  Terry had a “laid back” personality, slow to anger or complain. If you were happy, it made him happy.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

On Tuesday, June 11, 2019, Terry Lee Smith was called from earthly labor to eternal rest. He leaves to cherish his memories his beloved wife, Blanch; his three daughters: Stella Smith, Christina Raftis (Christopher) and Terri Conklin; nine grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Terry Lee Smith, please visit our floral store.