Larry Don Smith
Dec. 31, 1944-Nov. 16, 2024
Pleasanton, California

Larry Don Smith, a devoted father, partner, athlete, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, at his home in Pleasanton, California. Born on December 19, 1944, in Lindsay, California, to Everett and Daisy Smith, Larry's life was a remarkable journey filled with resilience, passion, and generosity.

From humble beginnings in California’s Central Valley, Larry learned the value of hard work early, picking cotton and hacking grapevines alongside his family. At just 12 years old, he watched Mickey Rooney in The Fireball and decided he wanted to pursue a career in Roller Derby—a dream he would eventually fulfill through perseverance and determination.

Larry's teenage years were marked by self-reliance and ambition. When his family moved to Kansas for work and then decided to move again, he chose to stay behind, living with his uncle’s family to finish high school and pursue higher education at Emporia State University while working two jobs.

In 1963, when Larry returned to California to work in construction, his uncle helped him earn his journeyman carpenter’s card. But his dream of skating never wavered. By 1965, he joined the professional International Roller Derby League, where he excelled as a skater, earning the Rookie of the Year award. Over the next decade, Larry traveled the country, thrilling fans with his athleticism, running a Roller Derby training school in Montreal, and even meeting his wife through the sport.

After the International Roller Derby League sold out to Roller Games, Larry transitioned into a successful 40-year career in real estate. He earned his broker’s license, managed offices for Coldwell Banker and RE/MAX Accord, mentored new agents, and served on committees at the local and state levels. Teaching real estate classes and fostering professional growth among peers brought him pride and fulfillment.

Larry’s passions were as multifaceted as his career. He was an accomplished scuba diver, a brown belt in karate, and a dedicated volunteer for organizations like the Elks Lodge and the San Leandro Exchange Club. He supported charities such as Make-A-Wish Foundation and Toys for Tots, driven by a desire to give back to families and children facing hardships similar to his own.

A lover of the ocean, Larry found joy in underwater photography, often vacationing in Puerto Vallarta and in Maui, where he co-developed a mini timeshare opportunity for friends and clients. He also channeled his adventurous spirit into writing and publishing "The Last True Roller Derby", a book chronicling his experiences in the sport he cherished.

Larry's zest for life was contagious. He organized a Toastmasters group, enjoyed country music and line dancing, and loved spending time with family and friends. His unwavering integrity, generosity, and kindness left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Larry is survived by his daughter, Jacqueline Smith; his son, Charlie Smith; granddaughters, Zoey and Mila Smith; his half-brother, Don Lee Smith; his aunt, Ruth Keenom; and his life partner, Diane Sass. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.

Tags: business