Gregory Clayton Smith

Gregory "Greg" Clayton Smith, age 22, passed away on Saturday, June 11, 2011 after a tragic accident. Born on Feb. 20, 1989, Greg attended schools in Concord, Calif. before moving to Scott Valley in 2006. He loved life in the valley and was happiest when he was working as a ranch hand, hunting, being with cousins and friends, or playing rugby. Greg graduated from Mattole Charter School in 2008, then he attended Butte Community College in Durham, where he took classes in heavy equipment operation and criminal justice. He returned to Siskiyou County and was enrolled in the College of the Siskiyous' Law Enforcement Program at the time of his death. He worked for Rancho del Sol outside Etna but had also worked for the Menne Ranch and for his grandparents Vernon and Synthea Smith on the family ranch. Greg leaves behind his father Rand Smith, who lives in Concord, and his mother Karrie Smith, who lives in Hollister, Calif. He leaves behind his beloved brother George Smith and his sister Gabrielle Smith as well as his step-mother Leslie and two step-sisters Justina and Amber Duenas of Concord. He leaves behind his grandparents Vernon and Synthea Smith of Etna, Lonnie and Josie Autry of San Jose, and Elida Butts of Hollister. He also leaves behind his significant other Beth Langford of Etna and his two best canine buddies Mick and Chucks. In addition, he leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles and cousins throughout California and Oklahoma. Greg's passion for rugby led him to join the newly established State of Jefferson Elite Rugby Team. He had been named captain and was deeply proud of the position. He played "scrumhalf," an important and prominent position. In honor of Greg, number 9 jersey has been retired, not to be worn again. His enthusiasm for the game was only matched by his energy and support of everyone on the team. A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. this Thursday, June 16, 2011 at the Etna Cemetery with a gathering to follow at the Etna City Park. Desserts and salads are welcome. The Greg Smith Memorial Fund has been established at PremierWest Bank for donations to go to a rugby project in Greg's name. Donations are welcome. Send to the Greg Smith Memorial Fund c/o PremierWest Bank, P.O. Box 250, Greenview, CA. Greg, with his famous "Smith smile," will be deeply missed by all.

Gregory Clayton Smith

February 20, 1989 - June 11, 2011