Clifford Earl Smith of Long Creek died on Dec. 2, 2020 in Hermiston at the age of 81.
He was born on March 29, 1939 in Dead Ox Flats near Ontario to Gordon and Clara Jacobson Smith.
Clifford was raised for a good part of his childhood in Prairie City, where he graduated from high school in 1957. He then joined the United States Army, serving from 1958 until his honorable discharge in 1962. He then attended Treasure Valley Community College before transferring to Eastern Oregon College, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in English.
Clifford was united in marriage to Reiba Carter on Aug. 16, 1964 in Long Creek. He worked as a timber faller for many years before retiring. Clifford then worked as a substitute teacher, where he enjoyed connecting with students. He served on the Long Creek City Council and as mayor for several years.
Clifford enjoyed hunting and was an avid sports fan, playing city league basketball into his 60s and supporting his children and grandchildren in their sporting events and other activities.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Reiba Smith, Long Creek; daughters, Treina Smith Slatt, Hood River and Treila Smith, Monument; son, Rykeir Smith, Vancouver, Wash.; brother, Tim Smith, McMinnville; sisters, Sharon Leasy, Pilot Rock and Joyce Authier, Prineville; eight grandchildren, Treiquella, Peiyton, Tayleir, Aubreianna, Teigan, Zandeir, Lillien and Preston; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Clifford was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Ryan Smith; sister, Bev Baldrige; and a brother, Morse Smith.
A graveside funeral service with military honors was held on Dec. 5, 2020 at the Long Creek Cemetery.
Those who wish may make contributions in Clifford’s memory to Long Creek Ambulance in care of Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, P.O. Box 289, Hermiston, Ore., 97838.
Please share memories of Clifford with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
