Following the abrupt death of former Planning Commissioner Linda Smith Frost on Saturday morning, it was left for colleague David Voncannon to voice an elegant, succinct tribute:
“Linda needs to be remembered,” he said.
Mr. Voncannon initially voiced his views about Ms. Smith Frost at Monday evening’s City Council meeting.
“I have known Linda for several years,” he said. “I first met her when Tilden Terrace (a major housing project in his Tellefson Park neighborhood” was being built.
“As I became more interested in being involved with the city, I attended Planning Commission meetings, and that is how I got to know Linda.
“She was one of the people who encouraged me to seek appointment to the Planning Commission.”
When Mr. Voncannon did win appointment, he served beside Ms. Smith Frost during her final year as a Commissioner.
“I always looked to Linda for her common sense and good judgment,” Mr. Voncannon said. “She was a real estate professional, and she was professional in everything she did. She was a very impressive person.”
Mr. Voncannon said it may not be well known that throughout her eight years on the Planning Commission, Ms. Smith Frost commuted to her job in distant Camarillo, where she was general manager of the outlet mall. “Isn’t that something?” he said rhetorically. “Driving all the way up there and back everyday. To my knowledge, she never missed a Planning meeting even with all of that travel. Astonishing.
“Not quite a year ago, Linda changed jobs. She became manager of the shopping center in Marina del Rey. Her commute went from two hours in each direction to five minutes in each direction.”
Dear Editor,
I am shocked and very saddened to hear of the passing of Linda Smith Frost. I last saw her at Scott Wyant’s launch party and as residents of far west Culver City (the 90066 zip) we compared notes and observations on all the new restaurants recently opened in our neighborhood. I am so very sorry to learn that she is no longer with us and completely agree with David that the city should remember in some special way, such an engaged, active, involved and personally kind and charming member of the Culver City community. My deep condolences to her husband and family members.
Sincerely,
Judy Scott
I’m shocked and saddened to her of Linda Smith-Frost’s passing. She was a wonderful, smart, funny woman and will truly be missed.
I knew Linda as a young girl, we met at ten, in an art class. We became great friends in Jr high, till I moved from Louisville after my mothers death. She was always a bright, engaging person with bright ideas and a beautiful soul. I regret not seeing her more as we grew older. My sympathies to her dear family and friends .
It was with such sorrow that we learned of Linda’s passing last Saturday. I had the pleasure of serving my first 3 years on the Planning Commission with Linda; she had the complete respect of all those I know that served with her. She was dedicated to her City, insightful and fair to those that came before the Commission. I can’t think of a time that I saw her that she wasn’t cheerful and engaged; David Voncannon reminded me that her eyes almost always had a twinkle. Our family’s condolences go to her husband, David, and for those that knew her – we will miss her.
Mrs. Linda was a wonderful soul. In addition to being God-fearing and kind, she was an graceful professional. She served as an inspiration to so many young women including me who saw her consistent drive and hard work. Although she will be greatly missed, her spirit will live through the loved ones she left behind.
My family and I think the world of Linda Frost. She welcomed us to the Culver City area long before we got here. When we arrived she just made us feel at home. She hosted wonderful ladies Bible classes in her home and was a wonderful example of a true Christian. Linda was a absolute blessing to not only my family, but everyone around her.
OMG! I just saw this on the passing of Linda. I shared a little over 4 years with Linda on the Planning Commission and got to know her well. Other than always being prepared (of course!) Linda was simply a kind woman that showed compassion and understanding even when voting against an applicant. Linda always would have a smile on her face and inquire how one was doing. My condolences go to her family and friends. Linda you will be missed greatly!