Eldene Arne Smith

Dr. Eldene A. Smith, a beacon of compassion, generosity, and wisdom, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2024, in Beaumont, CA, at the age of 87. Born on January 10, 1937, in Wilson Michigan, Eldene's life was a testament to his faith-filled spirit and his unwavering dedication to his family and profession.

Eldene's journey was marked by a steadfast commitment to education and healing. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Andrews University and went on to receive his Medical Doctorate from Loma Linda University. His passion for medicine was not just a career but a calling that he embraced wholeheartedly. For over 55 years, he served as a practicing physician, touching countless lives with his skill and empathy. His commitment to his country was equally commendable, as he held the rank of Captain in the United States Air Force, a testament to his dedication and leadership.

A 5th generation Seventh-day Adventist, Eldene's faith was the cornerstone of his existence. It was his faith that shaped his character, making him a man of integrity and purpose. His life was a living sermon, inspiring others to be better and do better. As Helen Keller once said, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen of even touched - they must be felt with the heart." Eldene's heart was felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Eldene was a cherished husband to his wife, Pamela Smith for 42 years, and a guiding light to his children, Lori Laferriere, Jennifer Gursky, Pam Smith, Whitney Henderson, and Zachary Smith. His role as a father-in-law to Robert Henderson and Kelsey Smith was embraced with the same warmth and wisdom he offered his own children. Eldene's legacy continued through his adored grandchildren, Lauren Gursky, Jaimie Seely, Stephen Gursky, Beckett Smith, Kaitlynne Henderson, Bryson Henderson, McKenzie Henderson, and his great-grandchildren, Luke and Olivia Seely, who will forever hold dear the memories and lessons he imparted.

Beyond his professional achievements, Eldene was a man of many interests. He found joy in playing golf, flying airplanes, delving into a good book, completing many paint by number canvases, solving puzzles, exploring the world through travel, and cheering on his favorite teams, the Detroit Tigers, Lions and Red Wings. However, his greatest pleasure was found in the laughter and company of his family, with whom he shared countless cherished moments.

In a world that often celebrates the loud and the immediate, Eldene's life was a tribute to the quiet strength of kindness and the enduring power of a generous heart. His legacy is not just in the lives he saved, but in the love he gave and the faith he shared. As we remember Eldene, let us carry forward his spirit of generosity, his commitment to family, and his unwavering faith.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Dr. Eldene A. Smith succeeded in every sense of the word. His life was a gift to us all, and his memory will continue to inspire us to live with purpose, to love without reservation, and to leave the world a little better than we found it.

Eldene's story does not end with his passing. It lives on in the hearts of those he loved, the patients he healed, and the communities he enriched. Let us honor his memory by living our lives with the same grace and kindness that he so effortlessly embodied. Rest in peace, Dr. Smith, Doc, Eldene, loving husband, Dad, Papa, and thank you for showing us the way.

A memorial service will be held on December 15th at 1:00pm at the Palm Springs Seventh-day Adventist church.

A memorial service and final rest will be held on January 10th in Clyde, North Carolina at Crawford/Ray Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to ADRA International (adra.org)

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