It is with great sadness that we share that John LaVoy Smith age 76, passed away
September 24, 2021.
John was born in Fort Worth, TX on November 10, 1944. He was raised in Riverside, CA and graduated from Riverside Polytechnic High School in 1962.
John is survived by his wife of 40 years, Cynthia Smith, son David (& Becky), daughter Christine, step-daughter Stacey (& Lee Lukas), grandchildren Jacob, Emily, & Audrey, sister Patricia (& Daniel Medina) and step-brother Bruce Hicks (& Jo).
In 1961 John joined Laborers’ Union, Local 1184 in Riverside. He was the Business Manager and Financial Secretary-Treasurer from 1967 to 2017, leaving a lasting impact.
John was known for his unwavering dedication of bringing union wages and benefits to the unorganized employees throughout the Inland Empire. He held numerous appointed positions during his 57-year tenure. John was instrumental in establishing a mechanical pipe training facility where a mock filtration plant was constructed. The Laborers’ Training Trust purchased the property and shortly thereafter christened the training site as the “John L Smith Laborers Training Center.”
Johns’ favorite pastime was working out at the gym and riding his stationary bike. For a time, he enjoyed bass fishing and the largest bass he caught is still mounted on our wall.
A celebration of Johns life will take place on Monday, November 1, 2021 at 1:00 pm. Montecito Memorial Park, 3520 E. Washington St., Colton CA 92324. 909-825-3024
The family requests in lieu of flowers donations may be made to the San Bernardino City Mission.
