Birth date: Feb 22, 1945 Death date: May 1, 2024
Ralph Warren Smith Jr. was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on February 22, 1945. He was the first of six children of Ralph W. Smith Sr. and Ireta Payne Smith. His father had been a great athlete, and his mother the valedictorian, and Read Obituary
Betty, I just saw this about the passing of Ralph. I am so sorry to hear this. Ron passed away six years ago and I know how you must be feeling. We enjoyed so much having you as friends and neighbors in Olympia. Later we also enjoyed our time at the MTC serving with you and Ralph. I would love to reconnect with you. My phone number is the same as it has been for many years. Barbara Starkey
I was sorry to hear that Ralph had passed. I had the privilege of working with Ralph as his Executive Assistant while he was employed as the Assistant Secretary for the Aging and Adult Services Administration, within the Department of Social and Health Services, in the State of Washington. I was able to get to know Ralph as a state government employee, rather than a Mission President. He was a wonderful person and probably the kindest person I have ever worked for. He loved his family and spoke of them regularly. When Ralph left and retired from state government he was greatly missed by myself and the many employees within Aging and Adult Services.
Debbie Goldsby
Ralph was truly a pillar of strength, embodying his principles in every action. His mentorship and compassionate guidance have indelibly shaped our family, leaving a legacy of integrity and resilience that will resonate through generations.
Dear Elizabeth—
We were saddened to learn of Ralph’s passing. We have such fond memories of serving with the two of you in the Europe Area. Brooke remembers a tender moment with Ralph during that mission. Ralph asked Brooke to talk to a French Stake President about a prospective missionary because the president spoke only French and Brooke was to act as the translator. The president was concerned about whether to recommend a prospective sister missionary because of her past experience with mental illness. Ralph handled the matter in a very sensitive and positive way and the president felt reassured in the end to call the young sister into service. It was a great example of Ralph’s character as well as his ability to seek and receive divine inspiration. The two of you have blessed so many lives through your dedicated service. Elizabeth, we pray that you and your family will be blessed with abiding comfort and peace.
Love, Brooke and Jill Derr
It was a privilege and blessing to serve in Frankfurt, Germany with Ralph and Elizabeth. Sincere condolences to Elizabeth and the family
Dear Smiths:
We have great memories of Ralph. When we lived in Glen Terra, our oldest son, Karl, who is about Stephen's age, remembers going to the Smith's house and watching Star Trek The Next Generation with Ralph.
We remember many Stake Conferences where he would speak, and we would always come away edified.
We're grateful to have known Ralph, and wish the best for Betty and the family.
Michael & Elizabeth Schaub
Dearest Betty and family,
Sid and I are deeply sorrowful to hear of Ralph’s passing. I was blessed to be serving as Olympia Wa Stake Young Women’s president when President Smith was called to be 1st Counselor in the Stake Presidency over the Young Women’s program. It was a wonderful experience getting to know and love him in that capacity. When my husband Sid was a ward Bishop, President Smith was the Stake President. Sid thought so much of him and appreciated his great wisdom and counsel. We send you our deepest condolences and pray for each of you to find peace and comfort in the joy of seeing him again and join again for eternity. Much love -
Sid and Marjean Otton
Sad to hear that this great man passed on to the other side. President Smith was a great leader and I am so glad I got to serve while he was the Mission President in the Utah Provo Mission. Sister Smith once said we get treated like "Rock Stars" in Utah; and I believe President Smith was the Rock Star. We all respected him and loved being with him. Too many memories and great examples but if I had to share just one story of him it was this one- It was my last transfer and a missionary needed extra attention and I was assigned to be his companion. The great part was I would get to meet with President Smith weekly to keep him updated. One trying week, I remember showing some frustration with the situation and I will never forget President Smith getting choked up and teary eyed and said to me, "We have to find a way to help him." He was a great example of love for the one. This is one of many Christlike examples he showed that will always stay with me. Utah Provo Mission 2000-2003 (President Smith)
He was my misión president... He's so powerfull men...
We love you, Smith family, each and every one of you! From Norwin and Karen Burbidge
