Loretta's obituary
In Loving Memory of Loretta Lynn Smith
January 27, 1967 – January 25, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Loretta Lynn Smith, who departed this life on January 25, 2025, just two days before her 58th birthday after a short battle with cancer. Though our loss is immeasurable, we take comfort in knowing she has gained her angelic wings and is resting in eternal peace.
Loretta was a vibrant, charismatic woman who could light up any room with her presence. She had an infectious spirit, a deep love for life and dance, and an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel loved and welcomed. To know her was to love her—her warmth, kindness, and radiant energy left an unforgettable mark on all who had the privilege of crossing her path.
She accepted Christ at the age of 9 at Brown Chapel AME Church and was later baptized at Star Bethel Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Martin. She attended Altheimer School District and later pursued her education at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. In June 2002, she moved to Los Angeles, where she became a devoted member of West Angeles Church of God in Christ.
Loretta was blessed with a beautiful and loving family. She was the devoted wife of Deallgo Torres Vega, with whom she shared 21 wonderful years. She was a cherished mother to Tiffany, Erika, Jacqueline, and Nicholas, and a proud grandmother to Aidan, Kamren, Alyssa, Zoey, Kashis, Khaleesi, Brooklynn, Kai, King, Nicholas Jr., and Nylani.
She was the beloved daughter of Gloria Hawkins and Johnny Hawkins, who instilled in her the values of faith, resilience, and love. She is survived by her loving siblings Johnny Hawkins, Mary Crook, Louise Bailey, and Angela Nickson. She was preceded in death by her mother, Gloria Dean Hawkins, and her dear nephew, Ricky Martin.
Loretta married the love of her life, Deallgo Torres Vega, in 2011, a union built on love, devotion, and unwavering support. Their bond was a testament to the beauty of true partnership.
Loretta’s legacy is one of love, joy, and strength. She lived boldly, loved fiercely, and embraced every moment with grace. While we mourn her absence, we also celebrate the extraordinary life she lived and the many lives she touched. She will forever be missed but never forgotten.