Lynda Ruth Smith

Lynda Smith, talented Petaluma area musician, had her last musical note fade to the memory of family and friends on Sunday, January 6th following a medical emergency. Her family was holding her hands with music playing as she transitioned to the heavenly choir. To all who knew Lynda, it is safe to say—

—“Look out heaven, it’s going to be a wild ride.”

Lynda was born in Petaluma July 29, 1948, graduating from Petaluma H.S.  She lived for a number of  years in L.A. before returning to the area she loved, retiring as the Direct Marketing Manager from Pacific Bell Directory in San Francisco.

Lynda was active in the Petaluma area for most of her life sharing her gift of music and talent for choreography with the Petaluma United Methodist Church, Petaluma Harmoneers and Chorale, Kenilworth and Petaluma Jr. Highs, various Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living facilities, Elim Lutheran Church and at Petaluma High as choir accompanist and music director for multiple musicals. She was the National soloist for the women’s auxiliary of the VFW in 2000, singing at the Statue of Liberty. Lynda was also active in the Petaluma and district VFW chapter’s as a soloist, where she participated in Memorial Day observances for many years and a multitude of VFW related events sharing her moving rendition of our National Anthem.  Lynda was musically gifted with a powerful soprano voice and an incredible touch with the piano, sharing her talent in more shows, church services and weddings than could ever be listed.

Lynda is survived by her brother Nelson “Smitty” Smith Jr. (Paula), nephew Guy (Quinn) Smith and great nieces and nephew Naomi, Samuel and Violet, her three cats and beloved Sophie dog. Preceded in death by parents Nelson and Evelyn Smith  and mourned by a community of so many that she touched with her vibrant, funny, bigger than life personality and incredible musical talent.

A celebration of Lynda will be held at Elim Lutheran Church, 220 Stanley St. Petaluma, Friday, January 18th at 4:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to a music program or animal rescue of your choice.

“ Music is the prayer the heart sings”