Leona Smith

Leona Brooks Smith, whose late husband Gilbert (“Smitty”) Smith was the longtime director of the La Cañada Youth House, died in La Crescenta on Oct. 24. Born in Los Angeles on Jan. 11, 1912, she was 98.

She was married to Gilbert Henry Smith for 45 years. He preceded her in death in 1983.

She was an office manager for Los Angeles City schools and was an active member of her community her entire life. She served in organizations such as the La Cañada Assistance League, Pioneer Club and Meals on Wheels. She was a member and volunteer of the La Cañada United Methodist Church for more than 30 years.

Smith is survived by her two sons: Gilbert Smith of La Crescenta, and Melvyn Smith of West Chester, Ohio; seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 30 at La Cañada United Methodist Church with interment to follow at Glen Haven Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the La Cañada United Methodist Church.