Darlene Smith
OBITUARY
Darlene Smith, a lifelong adventurer, devoted public servant, and woman of deep faith, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at the age of 91. Born in Oakland, California on September 10, 1934, she spent her life embracing the world with curiosity, courage, and grace.
Darlene devoted 37 years of her career to Alameda County, where she rose to become the first woman in California to head a General Services Agency — a distinction that reflected both her capability and her quiet determination to lead. A graduate of Holy Names College, she brought intelligence and dedication to her work and to the many civic roles she took on over the years.
Beyond her professional life, Darlene was happiest exploring new places and experiences. Over three decades she traveled the globe, drawn especially to weeks-long hiking trips in remote corners of the world alongside cherished friends. She was an avid skier and a devoted lover of the arts, and she carried a spirit of adventure into everything she did.
A devout Catholic, Darlene was a faithful member of Corpus Christi Parish, where her faith remained a steady and guiding presence throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 49 years, Richard Smith, who passed away in December 2024. She is survived by her two sons, Gary (Renee) and Ronald (Betsy) Snyder; her six grandchildren, Allison, Ashley, Brett, Shea, Eric, and Jeffrey; and her five great-grandchildren. She leaves behind a family and a circle of friends shaped by her warmth, her sense of wonder, and her example of a life lived fully and well.
A service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on June 17, 2026, at Corpus Christi Church, 322 St. James Drive, Piedmont, California. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to BrightFocus Foundation – Macular Degeneration Research, 22512 Gateway Center Drive, Clarksburg, MD 20871.