Ralph E. Smith

Ralph E. Smith, 72, of Ventura, died Thursday, September 20, at UCLA Medical Center following a sudden illness. Mr. Smith was born February 2, 1940, in Springfield, Ohio. He had been a resident of Ventura County for 37 years moving here from Santa Barbara. Ralph received his Bachelors and Master’s degrees from University of California at Santa Barbara.

He was a College Counselor for the Ventura County Community College District until two weeks ago when illness forced his retirement.

Ralph had served on the Parks and Recreation Commission for the city of Ventura, and was a member of the Juvenile Justice Commission.

Ralph enjoyed growing orchids and he also loved the outdoors and fishing.

Several of Ralph’s passions in life were coaching and mentoring young adults and working with Veterans reentering college and civilian life.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Lucy Smith; daughter Melissa Smith (Matt Liston); son, Marcello Smith, girlfriend Jaime Dominguez her children Candice and Jordan; son, Michaeltore Smith; Dakwonjanae “DJ” Walters, a young lady he raised as his own daughter; grandchildren, Taylor, Donovan and Jacory all of Ventura.

In lieu of flowers the family request that memorial donations be made to

UCLA Radiation Oncology Fund, Attn: Radiation Oncology Chief Admin. Officer, Medical Plaza 200, B265, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7436.

Services will be held Friday, September 28, 11:30 A.M., at the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, with The Reverend Ralph James officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home and Crematory, Ventura .