On Sunday, September 18, 2022, local legend Jean Smith, passed away at the age of 88. Jean was born in Wisconsin and grew up above the first Chinese restaurant in the state, House of Lem. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin and traveled the world before settling in Long Beach at the Parks Recreation and Marine Department. Jean oversaw the supervision of many parks including Admiral Kidd, Silverado, Heartwell, Wardlow, Recreation and El Dorado, retiring after four decades of service. She resided in the LBC for the rest of her life, raised her children here and upon retirement, took care of her granddaughter, and dragged her along to play Scrabble at Ground’s and Simone’s, kayaking in the bay, line dancing and Tai Chi classes at the parks and for any and all adventures she could find. Jean had boundless energy and a quest for shenanigans and she still went to ElDo 2-3 times per week and continued to boss people around.

Jean had a passion for people and loved bringing others together for happy hour, a Lunar New Year celebration, outings to the Hollywood Bowl, or concerts in the park. She never met a party or boxed white zinfandel she didn’t like. She was an avid kayaker and swimmer and continued to do water aerobics at the JCC weekly and attend classes. Jean was known for her quick wit, her infectious smile, her kind and compassionate spirit, and her hilarious sense of humor. Jean was a strong, determined, and fiercely independent woman. She was adored by all and will be missed every day.

Jean is survived by her two daughters, Stacey and Kori, her granddaughter, Geneva, son-in-law, Colin, and her brother, Donald Lem; and was known as the fun one and affectionally called “Mean Jean” by her many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors. Jean always had at least two dogs, all rescues, and in lieu of flowers, contributions to Long Beach Animal Care Services would be greatly appreciated.

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