Smith, Richard H.

Richard H. Smith

October 5, 2019

Kendall – Richard H. Smith passed away on October 5, 2019, at the age of 72.  He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah “Debbie”; his children, Tim (Denise) Smith, Tom Smith & Tricia Smith; his brother, David (Katherine) Smith; his grandchildren, Dyllan Ross, Alexandra Nundy (Nick Nundy), Julia Smith, Caroline Smith, CaSandra Jasso (Isaac Jasso Jr.), Margarita Mendez, Jesus Mendez Jr., Maya Mendez, Lindsay Sandoval; and his great-grandchildren, Bailee Baker and Aubree Nundy.

Rich served his country as a Marine and saw combat in Vietnam at Fire Support Base Khe Sanh. He was an Artillery Forward Observer Radio Operator and we exchanged many stories of similar experiences in combat. Rich left the Marine Corps with many Awards, and a Good Conduct Ribbon, which amazes me after some of his stories.

His teammate, love of his life, most ardent supporter in all that he did, was his wife Debbie. She was with Rich through his military absence from the family to his bedside at his final breath. Her continual support and encouragement, night and day, were the primary reason Rich was able to endure the medical treatments for leukemia.

Rich fought his disease with the same intensity and tenacity he approached all challenges.

Although he succumbed to leukemia, and we miss my brother, all should take comfort in

knowing that there is one more angel above us.