Ora Deborah Smith

Deborah O. Smith passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 67 on July 14, 2022. She was born on November 2, 1954 in Covington, Georgia to Raymond and Evelyn (Payne)O’Kelley. She worked at Lithonia Lighting (later Acuity Brands Lighting) as a customer service manager for over 40 years. She was given the opportunity to move from Georgia to California with the company in the early 80’s. Shortly after the move, she married Gary Smith, became step mother to Derek and Adrienne and gave birth to Patrick.

She brought her southern charm to the west coast, and with that was able to touch so many lives and hearts and she laid her roots in Southern California. As a self proclaimed “hippie”, she loved and cherished the music she grew up with. Led by her love for Elvis Presley and The Beatles, the list of bands and artists that shaped her life and helped make her the incredible person she was is immeasurable.

Even though she ultimately spent more of her life in California than in Georgia, she never lost touch with all the important fundamentals that come with being raised in the South. Her passion for Jesus, big Sunday suppers, and her beloved Georgia Bulldogs was only matched by her love of her family. She always made sure to give all she had for the sake of her family. That was a trait that never wavered even up until her last day. That’s why the love she showed throughout her life will still carry on in those she left behind: Brother Monty, Sister-in-law Annette, Niece Lauren, Nephew Jacob, Son Derek, Granddaughter Emma, Daughter Adrienne, Son-in-law John, Grandson Lucas, Son Patrick, Daughter-in-law Sophia, Grandson Travis, Grandson Scott, Great Grandson Oliver.

At her request, there will be no services held. The family asks that if you knew her, to spend time with your loved ones as a way to honor her memory, because nothing was more important to her than family.