Armando Smith Nieto

Armando was raised in Hillside Village in El Sereno, where he built lifelong friendships and strong roots in his community. He was the beloved son of Benjamin and Beulah Nieto. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in El Sereno and went on to attend East Los Angeles College, where he was a proud member of Sigma Theta Chi.

A man of many talents and accomplishments, Armando pursued his love of baseball by playing in the Dodgers’ Minor League Farm System. His passion for service led him to serve his country with honor as a Vietnam veteran. He was a member of the elite Green Berets, served in Special Forces, the 101st Airborne Division, and worked as a medic—roles that reflected both his courage and compassion.

Armando continued his commitment to public service throughout his life. He served as a reserve officer with the Burbank Police Department, worked with Brinks Armored Car, and was employed by the Los Angeles Unified School District.

Beyond his professional life, Armando found great joy in sports and mentorship. He spent many years as a football referee and an ASA softball umpire, and he coached baseball for multiple seasons, sharing his knowledge and love of the game with younger generations.

Above all, Armando was a devoted family man and a man of strong faith. He is survived by his loving wife, Yolanda Nieto, and his three children, Tamara, Christopher (Ben), and Brian Nieto. He was a proud grandfather who cherished his grandchildren deeply and found immense joy in spending time with them.

A celebration of Armando’s life will be held on June 5th at 11:00 a.m. at Pierce Brothers Crestlawn Memorial Park and Mortuary, 11500 Arlington Avenue, Riverside, CA 92505. Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518.

Armando will be remembered for his strength, dedication, service, and unwavering faith. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he loved so dearly.