George Allen Smith

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of George Allen Smith; beloved husband, devoted father, and cherished grandfather, who left us peacefully on May 6, 2025, at the age of 77. George was born on November 14, 1947 to Velon and Gordon Smith, in Sanger, California. When George was in second grade they relocated to Fresno, where he went on to graduate from Fresno High School in 1965, and then attended Fresno City College for a short time. George worked for Safeway in Fresno and Visalia for 16 years. When Safeway left the area, he continued working as a manager at various convenience gas stations in Visalia. In 1970, George met the love of his life, Suzanne Griewe, on a blind date. They were married in Fresno in 1972 at Peace Lutheran Church. They were married for a little over fifty-two years at his passing. George was a man of quiet strength and unwavering dedication to his family. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, he found joy on the golf course, fishing, tending to his vegetable garden, or watching birds on the patio. His homegrown tomatoes were legendary, grown with the same care and pride he showed in all he did. Gardening wasn't just a hobby for George; it was an act of love. He also enjoyed teaching his daughters and grandchildren about the hobbies he loved. George retired in 2010 and enjoyed his vegetable garden, his books, his family, and his loyal dogs. He led a simple life, but he was happy. George was preceded in death by his parents, Velon and Gordon Smith, and his brother, Ronald Smith. He is survived by his wife Suzanne, his daughters; Sarah Beutler and Jennifer McCown, as well as his grandchildren; Kylia Mendes, Kyra Beutler, Landon Mendes and Grayson Beutler. He will be deeply missed, and will be remembered for his legacy of love, laughter and great conversation. A Celebration of Life will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 1111 S. Conyer, Visalia, CA, on May 24, 2025 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Grace Lutheran LWML or Grace Lutheran LWML or Grace Lutheran Altar Guild. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

George Allen Smith

November 14, 1947 - May 6, 2025