Home Going Memoriam for Rudolph Smith by Q Smith
Donation protected
Rudy was the first black employee at the Omaha World Herald working as a paper route boy at age 14. He worked his way up, self- taught and educated himself to become the first black Photo Journalist in the State of Nebraska. He retired after 45 years of service. He changed the face of the photo journalism world with his photography. He was able to finish his book during his last days pairing down over 10,000 photos to fit into this historical work. He helped aid African American athletes move on to professional leagues by featuring their photos on the front pages of the sports section of the newspapers at a time when blacks were not allowed to be. He was able to capture images of icons such as Michael Jackson, Dizzy Gillespie, Michael Jordan, Shirley Chisolm, Diana Ross, Robert Kennedy, and the civil rights riots throughout the state of Nebraska and around the country. He lived his life fully serving his community, church, and family. He will be terribly missed, but never forgotten.
Beloved husband of 52 years to Llana Smith, father to Rudy Jr., Shannon, and Quiana Smith (Stallings). Grandfather to 27 grand and great grandchildren. He went home to be with the Lord on the morning of Thursday, December 5th. In the words of a community member, "Rudy Smith was an amazing gentleman who leaves a legacy of his time and commitment to our community through teaching and a vast collection of photos expanding over the decades reflecting memories of change within our society and past generations to the present. Rudy was a giant that lived among us and will be missed, but well remembered." - Creola Woodall
The Smith Family thanks you for your kindness and generosity.
This Memoriam will aid in helping his community thrive with donations towards his favorite organizations where he volunteered and shared his gifts on a regular basis. Watch this short video on Rudolph Smith, the icon:
Community leaders keep Omaha icon, Rudy Smith's memory alive:
https://www.wowt.com/content/news/Community-leaders-keep-Omaha-icon-Rudy-Smiths-memory-alive-565904311.html
For more information on the organizations click the links below:
Omaha Great Plains Black History Museum
https://gpblackhistorymuseum.org/
Hope Center For Kids
http://www.hopecenterforkids.com/
Beloved husband of 52 years to Llana Smith, father to Rudy Jr., Shannon, and Quiana Smith (Stallings). Grandfather to 27 grand and great grandchildren. He went home to be with the Lord on the morning of Thursday, December 5th. In the words of a community member, "Rudy Smith was an amazing gentleman who leaves a legacy of his time and commitment to our community through teaching and a vast collection of photos expanding over the decades reflecting memories of change within our society and past generations to the present. Rudy was a giant that lived among us and will be missed, but well remembered." - Creola Woodall
The Smith Family thanks you for your kindness and generosity.
This Memoriam will aid in helping his community thrive with donations towards his favorite organizations where he volunteered and shared his gifts on a regular basis. Watch this short video on Rudolph Smith, the icon:
Community leaders keep Omaha icon, Rudy Smith's memory alive:
https://www.wowt.com/content/news/Community-leaders-keep-Omaha-icon-Rudy-Smiths-memory-alive-565904311.html
For more information on the organizations click the links below:
Omaha Great Plains Black History Museum
https://gpblackhistorymuseum.org/
Hope Center For Kids
http://www.hopecenterforkids.com/
Organizer and beneficiary
Crystal Walker Subramaniam
Organizer
Pepsi-Cola Sign, NY
Quiana Stallings
Beneficiary