Emily Lane Smith, 36, passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025 in Loleta. She was born in Eureka at General Hospital on November 22, 1988.

Emily attended elementary school in Hoopa and Rio Dell before being promoted to Fortuna Union High School, where she graduated in 2006.

Emily was a good student and learning seemed to come easy for her. She made friends easily and several have expressed how she was their “ride or die.” She had a beautiful smile that lit up a room. Emily enjoyed reading, road trips, days at the river or beach, watching movies and being with family and friends.

When Emily was 16, her older brother Paul passed away. This loss was something Emily could not overcome and the rest of her life she struggled with addiction.

Emily is survived by her son, Noah, mother Rebecca Kinderknecht (Loren), her father Cody Smith (Rochelle), siblings, Aaron(Derek), Jordan (Sierra), Cameron(Justine), Rowdy, Alexis, and Jade, her grandparents, Darrel and Connie Ridenour, Ginger Speer (Bob) and stepmother Carmen Sargent. She also has numerous aunts uncles and cousins that will miss her dearly.

Emily was proceeded in death by her brother, Paul Kinderknecht.

Memorial contributions can be made to your charity of choice. The family would like to extend their gratitude to everyone who has reached out and shared their memories of Emily.

A celebration of life is being planned for May 10 at the Rio Dell Fireman’s Hall at 12 noon.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Emily Smith’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.