Patricia Jane Smithson

Patricia Jane Smithson of Spring Valley, CA passed away on Monday, October 10, 2022. Pat was born on August 25, 1946 in Gallup, NM to Richard “Tex” and Inez West. At a young age Pat and her family moved to Covina, CA and then spent the rest of her life in San Diego, CA. Pat is preceded in death by her husband William “Corky” Smithson, her parents and her sister, Ginny Ferrin. Pat is survived by her 3 daughters, Leah Maes (Tony), Christine Shaw (Jim) and Jennifer Smithson and 6 beloved grandchildren, Joey Shaw, Sydney Shaw, Katelyn Maes, Morgan Maes, A.J. Maes and Lilly Shaw. Pat was a stay-at-home mom for many years and then began working in thrift stores and retired as an Area Supervisor. She had a passion and skill for this career that made her extremely successful. She would often say, “I never wanted to be the boss, but when I was, I didn’t want to be anything else”.

Mom had wonderful memories from childhood traveling to Kingman, AZ to spend Christmases with her family in the motel her grandparents owned. Mom passed on her love of the holidays and family traditions to her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed working in her yard, pulling weeds, fighting gophers, growing all types of plants and bushes and watching her family spend summers in the pool. For many years, Mom and her sisters went on yearly “sisters” trips where they visited new places around the U.S. She was also fortunate to have remained close with her high school friends whom she visited with as much as time allowed. Later in life, Mom and Dad loved to travel in their RV, especially when they were able to take their grandchildren. Mom loved to reminisce about her childhood memories and her numerous vacations; but the highlight of her life was the memories she had of the funny things her children and grandchildren would say and do. Prior to her death, mom told us, “I got to do everything I wanted” and she was ready to see her parents and sister in heaven. We admire her strength and dedication to her family; and her influence will be with us always. We love and miss you, Mom. LCJ

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elcajonmortuary.com for the Smithson family.