Randy LaMond Smith

By Sun Advocate

Randy LaMond Smith (Papa Smurf), age 64 was called to his heavenly home surrounded by his loving family, on February 18, 2016, after a battle with cancer. He was born May 25, 1951, the only son of LaMond and Nellie Smith.
Randy married his eternal sweetheart, Ila Jean on September 17, 1974. The marriage was later solemnized in the Manti LDS Temple. During Randy and Jean’s 43 years of marriage their greatest accomplishments were the birth of their 5 children. He had a special connection to each and every one of his grandkids. Randy made friends with all who knew him and helped and adopted anyone who he felt needed help. He was happiest when all the kids, grandkids, and adopted family and friends were on any type of outdoor adventure with him. He was a firm believer of the more the merrier. Randy in stilled his adventurous, no fear, pushing life to the limits attitude on his kids. He led many adventures and trail rides down thru the San Rafael Swell. The louder, the faster, the better was his way of life. He loved camping, four wheeling, hunting, mud racing, boating, and any other activity that the family could do together. Randy spent many hours in an arena driving and fixing demolition derby cars and training and riding horses. Randy had many occupations, a jack of all trades; a mechanic, welder, electrician, truck driver, farmer and cowboy. A resourceful soul, “a lil black tape, bailing twine, and silicone could fix everything”.
Randy was a true American Hero. He served from 1970 through 1977 in the United States Marine Corp. He was a sergeant during the Vietnam War. From 1985 through 1989, he was a member of the U.S. National Guard Unit 1457. Randy proudly flew the American and United States Marine Corp flag with pride. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he served in many callings. His Christ- like attributes were a loving example and appreciated by all. Randy was a giving man, willing to go the extra mile and help all in need. He was a loving Husband and Father who cared deeply for his family. He valued and cherished his time with family above all. He also loved his “lap dogs”. Randy will be sorely missed by all who knew him. We are so grateful for the plan of salvation.
Randy is survived by his loving eternal companion and Best Friend Ila Jean Price, Children; Kari (Jeremiah) Donivan, Price UT; Cheryl (Josh) Swapp, Fairview UT; Heather (Jason) Westring, Nephi UT; Ryan (Desilee) Smith, Garland UT; Lacey (Randy) Hansen, Tremonton UT; 18 1/2 Grandchildren, His parents LaMond and Nellie Smith, Ferron, UT; Sister, Becky; Brother and Sister-in-laws, Nieces, Nephews, Close Friends, and Co-Workers. Preceded in death by his sister, Linda Smith; Father and Mother-in-law, Darrel & Louise Price.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, February 25, 2016 in the Nephi Stake Center, 351 N. 100 W. Family and friends may call Wednesday evening from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Anderson Funeral Home, 94 West 300 North Nephi, and one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment will be at the Ferron City Cemetery, 400 East Cemetery Road Ferron, Utah at 3:00 p.m. The Randy Smith Memorial Fund has been set up at the Wells Fargo Bank. www.andersonfh1866.com