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George E.
Smith Jr.
July 9, 1943 – December 11, 2024
George Elliott Smith, Jr. was a devoted family man and accomplished architect who touched the lives of many with his love, creativity, and dedication. Born on July 9, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, George spent his early years there before his family relocated due to his father's work with The Martin Company (now Lockheed Martin).
In 1987, George married the love of his life, Marliere (Marti), blending their families into a dynamic household of 10 children, ranging in age from 11 to 24 at the time. Over the years, their family grew to include 25 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. George was happiest when surrounded by his large, lively, and loving family.
A graduate of the University of Colorado, George earned his bachelor's degree in architecture in 1967 and became a licensed architect in 1969. His career spanned metro Denver, Crested Butte, Oklahoma, and beyond, where he contributed to numerous residential and commercial projects. Notable works include the Scott United Methodist Church, the Community Center at Sakura Square, the Abilene Street Marketplace, the Promenade at Westminster, and the Stanley Lake Marketplace. In the 1970s, George spearheaded the revitalization of Old South Gaylord Street, leaving a lasting mark on Denver's architectural landscape.
George's passions extended beyond his profession. He loved traveling, especially family vacations to Puerto Vallarta, and enjoyed gardening, jazz music, history, and collecting art. He spent most of his adult life in Denver, where his contributions to the community and his family's happiness were evident in every aspect of his life.
George was married to his first wife for 15 years before becoming a devoted single parent for four years. He and Marti later reconnected, building a life together filled with love and family. George is survived by his beloved wife, Marti, and his children: Juliet Smith (Jeff Auer) of Brooklyn, NY; Zach Smith (Julie) of Denver, CO; Josh Smith of Denver, CO; Hillary Heien (Jeffrey) of Denver, CO; Marissa Smith of Denver, CO; and stepchildren Shawne Ahlenius (Kris Hefley) of Brighton, CO; Todd Ahlenius (Rebecca Ward) of Denver, CO; Robyn Alexander of Seattle, WA; Kristi Caston (Michael) of Denver, CO; and Eric Ahlenius of Denver, CO. He was preceded in death by his parents, George Elliott Smith and Pauline Louise (Eubanks) Smith.
A reception in celebration of George's life will be held on March 1, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2201 Dexter St., Denver, CO 80207. All friends are warmly invited to attend.
George's warmth, creativity, and devotion to his family will forever be remembered by those who loved him, and those with whom he worked with.
St. Thomas Episcopal Church
2:00 - 4:00 pm
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