James Allen “Al” Smith

James Allen “Al” Smith, 80, of Newport Beach, died Jan. 13, 2008, following a lengthy illness, the result of a debilitating stroke 11 years ago.

Born March 29, 1927, he was one of three children born to James and Muerill Smith, who came to California from Nebraska in 1925.

Mr. Smith graduated from Montebello schools and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1946, stationed in Guam. After his honorable discharge, he attended Fullerton Junior College, where he met Helen Willis of La Harbra. The couple married in 1950 and subsequently had two sons: Craig Allen, born in 1951, and Lance Norman, in 1964. They resided in Whittier and later in Hacienda Heights, before he surprised his wife and purchased a beach home in Bayshores, where Mrs. Smith still resides.

Employed by General Telephone Company for 42 years, he retired in 1992 as General Manager of the Eastern-Pomona Division.

Mr. Smith was active in community affairs and various charities, serving with noted distinction in such groups as Child Help USA, Orangewood, Casa Colima Rehabilitation Center, Rotary International, Chamber of Commerce, Boys’ Club of America, YMCA, Elks Club and the American Legion. At one time, he was on the Pasadena Rose Bowl Parade Committee and the board of directors of the homeowners’ associations at Bayshores and at their second home in Palm Desert.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son Craig; and brother Bill.

Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Helen Smith; son Lance; two grandchildren, Jade and Cheyne; great-grandson, Craig Allen; sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Gary Potter of Huntington Beach; a sister-in-law, Delores Smith of Whittier; several nieces and nephews; and a close family friend, Annie Hall.

Private services have been held. Those wishing may make memorial donations to a charity of choice.