Stephen Richard Smith

Stephen Richard Smith, 89, of Scotts Valley, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, while holding the hand of his beloved wife, Kathryn.

Born on September 24, 1936 in San Francisco to James and Eleanor Smith, Stephen enlisted in the United States Navy in 1955. He honorably served as an Ordinary Seaman on the USS Piedmont during the Korean War, where he demonstrated courage and dedication. He often shared fond memories of his time of service maintaining military vessels while stationed abroad.

Following his military service, Stephen returned home and began a career as a driver for United Parcel Service. Over his 30-year tenure, he was known as "Smitty" and built lasting friendships that he carried well into his retirement. A man of many talents, Stephen took great pride in physically building the family home his wife had designed early in their marriage and spent years meticulously caring for the surrounding property. "Gramps" passed on his many skills to his grandsons who helped with numerous carpentry projects over the years, skills they value and carry with them today.

Stephen was best known for his quick wit and signature catchphrases, a favorite being to "Get Real, Baby!" He had a friendliness that turned strangers into friends and he was always the first to offer a helping hand to a neighbor or family member in need. Stephen often said that "family is everything," especially when it involved homemade cookies baked lovingly by his granddaughter – he definitely loved his sweets.

Stephen is survived by his wife of 51 years, Kathryn, who he married in 1974; his children, Peter (Susan) Smith, Donald (Cerina) Locke, Barbara Eibach, Julie Toccalino, and David (Rose) Locke; his eight grandchildren, Phillip and Jennifer Smith, Jordan, Taylor, and Nicole Toccalino, Natasha De Jager, and Weston and Dalton Locke; and four great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

A special thanks to all those who cared for Stephen with their visits of encouragement and prayers for peace and healing. Per Stephen's wishes, a private gathering will be held at the creek that his home overlooked to honor his life and legacy, and he will be interred with honors at the California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), an organization Stephen supported for many years.

As Gramps would always charmingly say, "Ta Ta For Now."

Published in Press Banner · March 30, 2026