Ronnie Tee Smith

April 30, 1949 – July 20, 2026

Ronnie Tee Smith, a devoted father and grandfather, decorated United States Marine, distinguished Nevada educator, author, artist, musician, and lifelong student of the world, passed away in 2026 at the age of 77.

Ronnie lived a life defined by discipline, hard work, creativity, courage, and service to others. Although his accomplishments were many, those who knew him will remember most deeply his caring heart—especially his love for his family and his unwavering commitment to young people.

As a young man, Ronnie served his country in the United States Marine Corps. He attended military language school and learned to speak some Vietnamese. During his service, he was awarded two Purple Hearts. The strength, discipline, and perseverance that characterized his military service remained evident throughout his life.

Ronnie devoted his professional career to education and to helping students recognize their own potential. He began his career as an elementary school teacher in Las Vegas. Later, he became an English teacher at Las Vegas High School. He then served in a succession of leadership positions within the Clark County School District. He was dean of Kenny C. Guinn Middle School, vice principal of Walter Johnson Middle School, principal of Grant Sawyer Middle School, and principal of Clark High School. He also served as an administrator at Hyde Park Middle School.

His leadership was recognized throughout Nevada. Ronnie was named Nevada State Assistant Principal of the Year in 1995 and Nevada State Principal of the Year in 1997. As Nevada’s honoree, he attended a national conference in Washington, D.C., alongside principals selected from across the country. In 2009, the Las Vegas City Council further honored him with a special proclamation recognizing him as Citizen of the Day.

Awards, however, tell only part of the story. Ronnie genuinely cared about children. He believed in their abilities, encouraged them to aim higher, and worked tirelessly to create opportunities for them. Under his leadership, approximately $1 million in scholarships was raised each year to help graduating students continue their education. He understood that education could change the direction of a young person’s life, and he dedicated his own life to making that transformation possible.

Ronnie’s interests and talents extended far beyond his work in education. He was the author of four books and a gifted visual artist, sculptor, photographer, and carpenter. He was also a talented musician who played the piano, guitar, and ukulele.

He approached recreation with the same enthusiasm and determination that he brought to his professional life. He learned to scuba dive and windsurf, loved fishing, and was an accomplished gardener. He enjoyed antique cars, collected coins, and seemed able to learn almost anything he set his mind to.

He was also an exceptionally good roller skater. When Motown music began playing at the rink, everyone knew to watch out. Ronnie seemed to become 30 years younger, transforming the roller-skating rink into his own dance floor and filling it with energy, style, and joy.

For all his public achievements and remarkable abilities, Ronnie’s most important roles were personal. He gave strength, guidance, encouragement, and support to the people he loved. His influence will continue through his family and through the countless students, teachers, administrators, and community members whose lives he touched.

Ronnie is survived by his twin brother, Donnie Smith; his son, Jemal Smith; and his granddaughter, Krystana Coleman, along with the many relatives, friends, former colleagues, and former students who will remember his wisdom, humor, creativity, generosity, and deep concern for others.

His was a life of extraordinary variety and meaningful service—a life filled with courage, education, music, art, adventure, family, and love.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Palm Mortuary - South Jones, 1600 South Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89146, US, on August 15, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

A Reception will follow at Palm Mortuary - South Jones, 1600 South Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89146, US, on August 15, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.