Richard D. Smedley's Obituary
Richard Don Smedley
September 6, 1932- February 27, 2026
Richard Don Smedley, lovingly known as Rick, passed away on February 27, 2026, at the age of 93. He was born on September 6, 1932, in Deer Lodge, Montana - a place that helped shape the grit, steadiness, and quiet strength that marked his entire life.
At 18, Rick answered the call to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Navy on March 12, 1951, and served four years aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown. He was honorably discharged on March 14, 1955. His time in the Navy reflected qualities that would define him: loyalty, integrity, courage, and devotion to something greater than himself
After his military service, Rick attended Central Washington University. It was there that he met the love of his life, Judy Ruth Miller. They married on August 23, 1958, when Judy was just 19 years old. Their marriage spanned 67 years, 6 months, and 4 days -- a remarkable testimony to covenant, devotion, and enduring love.
Rick began his career in education as a teacher before moving into administration, eventually serving as an elementary school principal. He led with steadiness and fairness, believing children deserved both structure and encouragement. His influence shaped countless young lives, though he rarely spoke of his impact.
He retired at the age of 58 and embraced a season filled with golf games, fishing trips, cooking for family, and tending his garden. He found joy in simple rhythms and in being present with the people he loved.
Rick was known for his sense of humor, deep faith, unwavering integrity, grit, generosity, and loyalty. His steadiness created safety. His predictability was not dullness - it was strength. You knew where he stood. You knew he would show up.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his son, Brad Richard Smedley (Paula); and his daughter, Lori Elizabeth Sabo (Mark). He is also survived by his grandchildren: David Smedley (Johanna), Stacie van de Weghe (Joe), Scott Sabo, Jacob Smedley (Rebekah), and Peter Smedley (Stephanie); and his great-grandchildren: Aiden, Nathan, Rayan, Lydia, Evelyn, Eli, Oliver, Zoey, Caleb, Micah, Willem, and Andrew.
Rick's legacy lives on not only in the generations that follow him, but in the character he quietly modeled: faithfulness over flash, presence over performance, commitment over convenience.
A life well lived. A race well run. A faithful man now home.
In lieu of a memorial service, please leave your thoughts and memories on the tribute wall. Rick's family would love to hear them. Thank you.
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