Leona E. Smith 85, of Oxnard CA. died of cancer very early in the morning on Friday September 11, 2009. She died at home with her family at her bedside. She was born September 30, 1923 in Ohio to Hansel and Iva Baker. She was married to her beloved husband, of 55 years, Edward (Bud) Smith Sr. in Oct. 1946. And lived in Ohio raising her 2 sons until 1965 when the family moved to California residing in Canoga Park California.
Leona had many jobs during her lifetime both in Ohio, and in California, primarily working as a switchboard operator, retiring from Litton Industries in Canoga Park Calif. after 20 years of service. Leona loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also enjoyed playing golf, going on cruises, and traveling in their Motor Home with her husband after retirement. In 1993 Leona and Edward Sr. moved back to Ohio. After the death of her husband in 2001 Leona moved back to California, residing in Oxnard, Calif. so that she could be near to her sons, and grandchildren.
In Addition to her parents Leona was preceded in death by her beloved husband Edward, Her son Charles Hamilton, grandson Robbie Hamilton, and brother Vernon Baker. She is survived by her son Edward Smith Jr. (Bud) and wife Carla, Daughter in law Barbara Hamilton, Grandchildren; Lisa Hamilton, (Brian), Mike Smith (Lindsay), Amy Smith (Cleve). Brothers; Luke, wife Connie, Bob and family of Ohio, Sister Glenna and family of Texas, Sister in law Margaret Baker and family. Great grandchildren Christina, Carolina, Anthony, Melanie, Joseph, and Michael. Special friends Maria, and Tara.
The family would like to express their grateful appreciation to loving caregivers Diane De La Cruz and Chris Rutherford. And to the Roze Room Hospice Team for all their care and support during this difficult time, especially nurse Bonnie Rhoda, Thank You!
Tuesday September 15, 2009 , 11:00am - 12:00pm at Perez Family Chapel
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Tuesday September 15, 2009 , Immed. - Following at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park
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