EWU News

In Memoriam: Lelia Smith

September 23, 2026 By Melodie Little

The Eastern Washington University community was saddened to learn of the passing of Lelia Smith on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026.

Smith came to Eastern in 1978 and retired in 1999 after 21 years of service in the International Students Program.  She was married to EWU emeritus faculty member Grant Smith.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Cheney Congregational Church.