Obituary: Lowell Edward Smith, 78, Grass Valley
Lowell Edward Smith of Grass Valley had a passion for photography and captured some amazing photos such as this one that highlights our Milky Way Galaxy in the standing shadow of this Aermotor windmill and pump.
Lowell Edward Smith, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, son, and cherished member of the Sherman County community, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2024. Born on August 11, 1946, in The Dalles, Oregon, Lowell lived a life filled with love, kindness, curiosity and an adventurous spirit.
Lowell grew up on the family farm east of Grass Valley with his parents and brother. This established deep roots in the community; making many life-long friends through elementary and high school. After graduating from Sherman High, he departed for Oregon State University, where he graduated with a degree in Agricultural Production.
After graduating from OSU, he eventually returned to his family’s farm in 1975, where he dedicated himself to the family business and raising a family with his wife, Nancy. He cherished spending time with his family, especially trips to the Oregon Coast and camping excursions in the Cascade Mountains.
Lowell was deeply involved in his community, from coaching Little League Baseball to serving on the School Board and later the Sherman County Library Board. One of Lowell’s favorite pastimes was taking photos of the beautiful landscapes around him. He shared this passion as an active participant in the local photography club, joining in many field trips and sharing tips with his fellow ‘togs.
Lowell was preceded in death by his wife of 30 years, Nancy Lois (Alberty) in July 2001, his father, Myrle Edward in May 2016 and his mother Emma Jean in February 2022. He is survived by his brother, Gordon of Rathdrum, Idaho; his children, Melanie (Smith) Morris and her spouse, Phillip, of The Dalles, Oregon, and Jason Smith and his spouse, Michelle, of Tualatin, Oregon; and his beloved grandchildren, Kayla (20) and Sydney (18).
Lowell will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he so dearly loved.
We invite you to join us for a Celebration of Life to honor Lowell Smith on Saturday, April 26th at 12pm at the 4-H/Home Economics Building, Sherman County Fairgrounds; 66147 Lone Rock Road, Moro, OR 97039. In the spirit of community and sharing, we will be having a potluck, so, if able, please bring a dish to share as we gather to remember and celebrate Lowell’s life. For those wishing, donations can be made in memory of Lowell to either the Sherman County Historical Museum or the Sherman County Education Foundation - two charitable organizations deeply meaningful to Lowell and his family.
