Trudi Lee Smith, 54, of Eureka, passed away on August 25,2025, surrounded by love, after a short but courageous battle with brain cancer.

Trudi lived her life with an open heart and a fierce love for her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, and nothing brought her more joy than time spent with her children and grandchildren. She worked hard throughout her life, but Trudi also knew how to embrace joy. She loved being surrounded by friends, laughter, and music. Many will remember her evenings with Danny, sharing a cocktail at 707 Bar with the crew after work, or swaying to live music on the boardwalk, her smile lighting up the night.

The beach was her place of peace — whether it was walking barefoot in the sand, listening to the waves, or watching the sun sink into the horizon, Trudi found comfort and joy by the water. Purple was her favorite color, and much like the ocean sunsets she adored, she carried its spirit — bright, bold, and full of life.

Trudi was preceded in death by her beloved grandmother, Nellie Hanson; her stepfather, Phil Hodgson; her son-in-law, Anthony Benelisha; and the true love of her life and soulmate, Danny Smith.

She leaves behind her children: Ashleigh Benelisha (Tyler), Cheyenne Jordan, Tyler Jordan (Sami), Kyle Karr, Cody Karr, and stepdaughter Kaylee Smith. Trudi was a proud and loving grandmother to Eleanor and Alex, who were the light of her life.

She is also survived by her mother, Nancy Hodgson; her father, Lornell Knaus (Elaine); and her siblings: Kent Knaus (Deb), Tory Knaus (Linda), Kelly Knaus (Sunni), Dan Hodgson (Collette), and Doug Hodgson (Thu). She will be deeply missed by her many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends, all of whom were touched by her big heart, her laughter, and her unwavering strength.

A celebration of Trudi’s life will be held at a later time, with details to come. This will be a time where family and friends will be invited to gather, share stories, and honor the incredible woman who gave so much love in her 54 years.

Her memory will live on in every sunset and in the crashing of the waves. And as her beloved Eeyore once said, “It never hurts to keep looking for sunshine.” Keep looking for the sunshine as Trudi did in any situation, no matter the clouds.

A special thanks to Hospice of Humboldt, including the wonderful staff at the Hospice House for giving our Trudi peace and comfort at the end. Arrangements provided by Ayres Family Cremation.

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