THERA LAMPKIN-SMITH

A walk-through viewing on Thursday, Jan. 21st from 5pm-7pm at Anderson-Ragsdale Mortuary. Graveside services will be held on Friday, Jan. 22 at 12 Noon at Mt. Hope Cemetery . 

Thera Camilla Lampkin Smith was born in Kilgore, Texas on June 16, 1935 to Henry Vernon Lampkin and Ola Camilla Roberson.  She spent the first ten years of her life in Texas before moving to the San Diego area with her parents and two brothers, Vernon and Marcie, in 1945.

Thera excelled in high school, both in her studies, and in extracurricular activities.  She involved herself in activities at her local church, Bethel Baptist Church, and spent hours at the piano, gracing everyone with her musical skills.  During her senior year in high school, she was named “Miss San Diego County School” queen for the 1950-51 semester.  She was given the title for her amazing beauty and personality.  Thera graduated from Point Loma High School in 1951.

A few years later, Thera would give birth to a son, Dwayne Arthel Jones, on March 30, 1954.  He was truly her pride and joy.  Together, in the early 1960’s, they moved to Los Angeles, where she continued to raise him until he left for college.   

In 1975, Thera began working for the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office as a Legal Secretary.  Over the years, she received many accolades for her excellent work and work ethic.  She would eventually retire from the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office in January 2006, after 31 years of faithful service. 

In 1984, Thera became a grandmother when her grandson, Brenden, was born.  Just as she would with her own son, she would show him unconditional love and support, and teach the strong ethics and moral values that she carried with her throughout her life.

Thera Camilla Lampkin Smith would pass away from natural causes on January 6, 2021.  She is survived by her grandson, Brenden Anthony Jones, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  

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