Louis "Jim" Smith

Louis James Smith, or Jim as he was known to most, was born in Torrance, California December 3, 1932, to Veronica and Louis Smith, also of Torrance. Jim was the youngest of four siblings, Helen (Smith), Mary Jane Casey and George Smith, all who have proceeded him in death.  He attended St. James Grammar School in Redondo Beach CA and went to the original Torrance High School, class of 1950 Following graduation, Jim enlisted in the army where he served as an Intelligence Analyst. A respected officer, Jim was commended with the Korean Service Medal, The United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He was en route to Japan for further service when the Armistice was signed in 1953. Upon returning home, he attended California State University, Long Beach where he graduated with a business administration degree.  He spent several years after college enjoying time as a bachelor, deep sea fishing off the California Coast and road tripping down to the Sea of Cortez.

In 1960 Jim was accepted into the Los Angeles Police Academy. He graduated in 1961. Soon after graduation - and while still a rookie officer - Jim entered law school. He obtained his law degree from the University of West Los Angeles School of Law in 1969; During this time, he met his beloved wife Gayle. They were married October 12, 1968 in Torrance, California. Both Jim and Gayle enjoyed time on their boat in King Harbor Marina with family and friends. Their beloved “Sammy Moo” soon took a backseat to the birth of their first daughter, Shannon (1971). Following a move to Rossmoor, their second daughter Stacie was arrived (1974.)

Jim’s career with the Los Angeles Police Department took him down numerous paths during his 37 years of service. He was a respected instructor at the Police Academy, involved in community outreach with troubled youth and was an integral part of the Community Relations sector. A well-known and loved Sergeant, Jim spent his final years of his police service as a respected officer in the Office of the Chief.

Jim was an incredibly engaged father and husband. He was active in AYSO soccer as both a coach and board member, as well as engaged in a variety of community and church volunteering. He loved trips - both land and sea - with his family. His greatest memories were spent sharing time with his “3 girls” and traveling, whether it be through out the United States or Europe. Upon his retirement in 1998, Jim and Gayle traveled extensively. They relished cruising with friends through out Latin America, Australia and New Zealand. Jim and Gayle stayed closer to home once their grandchildren arrived...he considered himself a blessed grandfather to the children who lovingly referred to him as “Pops.” Jim is survived by his wonderful wife Gayle, his two daughters Shannon (Andy) North, children Chase (11) and Hutton (8); Stacie (Rob) Capobianco and sons Caden (15) and Joey  (12.) He will be remembered lovingly as a devoted father, husband and beloved uncle & grandfather.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401