Colleen Smith Obituary

In Loving Memory of Colleen Smith

December 17, 1936 to December 8, 2023

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Colleen Estelle Smith, a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, neighbor, and friend. Colleen departed this world peacefully on December 8, 2023, just days before her 87th birthday.

Colleen, born to parents Bede and Thelma Cuddy in Niagara Falls, NY, was a woman of extraordinary strength, kindness, and resilience. As the matriarch of a large family, she leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Colleen is survived by her sister Yvette Dowe of Lewiston, NY. Her legacy lives on through her eight children, who have inherited not only her strength but also her commitment to family and community. She is survived by her daughters Geralyn, Laure, Traci, Natalie, and Elizabeth, and her sons Lonnie, Danny, and Paul. Her memory will be cherished by her seventeen grandchildren; Drew, Brittney, Chase, Cuddy, Cash, Clayton, Sean, Breanne, Jacob, Anthony, Travis, Cody, Megan, Jessica, Kathryn, Joshua, and Jonathan, and her seven great grandchildren; Abigail, Falynn, Deliliah, Chandler, Corbin, Camdyn, and Theo, who will forever be grateful for the love and joy she brought into their lives.

Colleen's warm and nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family. She was a pillar of support for her friends and a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing her. Colleen's love knew no bounds, as her generosity and compassion touched the lives of countless individuals.

As a woman of faith, Colleen found strength in her spirituality, and her unwavering belief in the power of love and forgiveness guided her through life's challenges. She was a source of wisdom and a steady anchor as a member of the Catholic woman’s organization; Young Ladies Institute (YLI), where the principles of unity, sisterly love, and protection embody their love and concern for each other. As a member for over 60 years, she held every local board position and held office as the 100th Grand President.

Colleen moved to Long Beach, California in September 1955, and called the city home for over 69 years.

Colleen worked at McDonnell Douglas/Boeing as a office administrator and personal assistant for over 25 years and retired in 2003. She also volunteered with the Boeing Retirees Luncheons.

She loved traveling the world and was lucky enough to visit four continents. Her latest adventures took her to Italy, Mexico, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.

She loved bingo and playing card and board games with her family and friends.

She loved keeping her mind active as a student of the Long Beach City College Senior Studies Program.

She was active with the Stearns Park Advisory Board and worked to add the community center in 1976.

She volunteered at the Veterans Hospital Spinal Cord Ward.

She delivered Meals on Wheels for the homebound seniors, veterans, and the disabled. And she made lunches for the homeless with the Lazarus Project.

She was a star to all of us, but she even made it to the big screen. In the 1976 movie Eat My Dust, tagged as the greatest car chase ever filmed, starring Ron Howard, Colleen played ‘The Flower Lady’ in the movie.

As we mourn the loss of this remarkable woman, let us also celebrate the beautiful life that Colleen lived and the indelible mark she left on the hearts of everyone she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of those who went before her.

Colleen’s funeral will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at St. Cornelius Church in Long Beach
9:30 am – Decade of the Rosary and YLI Memorial Service – Appointed Lead: Lana Hanney
10:00 am – 11:00 am – Funeral Mass
11:00 am – 4:00 pm - Reception following mass in Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. John’s Seminary, a cause that was dear to Colleen's heart. 

https://stjohnsem.edu/general-donation
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Donated on behalf of Colleen Smith with YLI, St. Pius X #211.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401