Gregory Lee Smith

On Thursday, July 3, 2025, Gregory (Greg) Smith passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. Greg was born on May 21, 1947, in Reedley, CA, to Howard and LaVerne Smith and raised in Dinuba. Greg attended Fresno State, where he earned his degree and teaching credential. In 1966, he met Renella Mastrofini of Madera, and they were married in June 1969. Greg began his teaching career in 1971 but took a hiatus from teaching in 1978 when he went to work in wine sales throughout the region. In 1987, Greg returned to the classroom where he taught primarily sixth grade. He was active in the teachers' union as a site representative, California Teachers Association State Councilmember, Visalia Unified Teachers Association board president, and negotiator for the union. In 1999, Greg was recognized as Teacher of the Year for the Visalia Unified School District. Greg was known for his calm, caring demeanor and as a loving man who influenced innumerable lives as a husband, father, teacher, and friend. He enjoyed barbecuing (his chicken was a standout), entertaining friends at dinner parties with Renella, vacationing in Santa Cruz with family, keeping many pets (Corgis were favorites), fishing-both freshwater and ocean with his son, and he was an avid 49er fan. Greg was predeceased by his parents and sister, Marsha. He is survived by his wife, Renella; son Tim Smith of Oregon; daughter Leeanna Smith of Sacramento; nephew Matthew Parish of San Bruno; niece Heather Parish (Jaguar Bennett) of Fresno; numerous godchildren; many friends; and a bevy of former students with whom he kept in touch. The family wishes to thank Therapeutic Home Health nurse Trish for her loving care of Greg. In place of flowers, donations can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research or the building fund for St. Charles Catholic Church in Visalia. Public visitation (5 p.m.) and the Rosary (6 p.m.) will be held at Salser and Dillard in Visalia on July 17. The funeral mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church at 11 a.m. on July 18th, and a reception will follow at Salser & Dillard Life Event Center. The interment will be a private occasion for the family. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Gregory Lee Smith

May 21, 1947 - July 3, 2025