Emmett Ray Smith

Emmett Ray Smith, 74, passed away surrounded by his family on October 21, 2011 in St. George, Utah after a prolonged illness. Emmett was born on January 29, 1937 in Phoenix, Arizona to Riley Orville and Johnnie Bell Smith. He married Jacqueline Joan Hiland on September 8, 1956. Their marriage was solemnized in the Mesa Arizona LDS Temple. Emmett grew up in Glendale, Arizona. He and Jackie met while attending Glendale High School and were later married while he was attending the University of Arizona. Emmett shared himself with others as a member of the LDS church, high school teacher and coach, and as a motivational speaker to adults and youth. He served as a Bishop in the LDS church on two different occasions and served three church missions with his sweetheart, Jackie. Emmett was an inspiration to thousands of students as a teacher and coach (track and cross-country) for Glendale, Apollo, and Cortez High Schools in Phoenix, Arizona. As the subject of the film "The Emmett Smith Story" he was asked to speak to adult and youth groups across the country and found joy in helping others achieve great things in their lives. He had many achievements in life, including Arizona Teacher of the Year, Valley Forge Freedom Foundation recipient, two time Arizona State Cross-Country and Track team championships, and recipient of the BSA Silver Beaver Award.
Most important in Emmett's life was his wife Jackie and their wonderful 55 years of marriage they shared. They both have fond memories of the time they spent together serving others on church missions in New York, Arizona and Utah. Together they have raised four children, Rob (April), Scott (Gayla), Rick (Kathleen), and Laurie (Bill) Wilson. Their 16 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren are their pride and joy. Emmett is survived by his brothers John, Bill, and Bob Smith as well as a sister Cherry Gilliam. He is preceded in death by his parents Riley Orville Smith and Johnnie Bell Smith and his sister Jean Smith.
On behalf of the family, a special thank you to Utah Hospice Specialists for their loving care and service, especially Nurses Lorrie and Krissy, and Aids Lynsie and Kaytlynn.
Funeral service will be held Monday, October 24th, 2011 at the Little Valley Third Chapel in St. George, Utah (2079 E 2450 S, St. George, Utah, 84770) A viewing will be held from 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. with the funeral starting at 11:00 a.m. Arrangements are being made by SereniCare Funeral Home at 1316 South 400 East, Suite A3, St. George, Utah 84790 (435-986-2085). Memories and well wishes can be shared with his wife and family at www.serenicare.com.