Tribute to Ted Smith Sr.

Born in Long Beach, Ted Smith moved to Hemet in 1936. He graduated from Hemet High School in 1941. He served in the Air Force during World War II, taking part in many campaigns, including service in Italy, France, and Africa. He returned to Hemet High School as a teacher and coach in 1951 after graduating from San Diego State University. He later became Vice Principal and retired in 1979. Ted Smith was a tremendous man who dedicated his life to serving the youth of Hemet. Throughout his career as a teacher, coach, and school administrator he served our community with style, honesty, and integrity. After retirement, he and his wife Bettie, maintained strong ties to the school with both moral and considerable financial commitment each year.

 

 

Mr. Smith played on Hemet High’s only CIF Basketball Championship team in 1940 & 1941. He later became the Head Boy’s Varsity Basketball Coach. As a result of Mr. Smith’s commitment through the years, our gymnasium proudly carries his name. Mr. Smith touched many lives through many generations. He is truly missed and we dedicated our season to his memory and love for the game. He believed in young people and making their dreams come true by living their lives to the fullest, giving today’s youth opportunities to learn and grow. Mr. Smith set the very best examples for all of us to follow.