LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Jacqueline Monique Rich Smith passed peacefully on Jan. 19, 2017.

Jacqueline was born in France on Aug. 20, 1945, and brought to America by her adopted parents Gisele and Carl Chapa, who preceded her in death.

She has two sisters, Patricia Sparks (Ray) and Betty Chapa (who passed away in 2010), and her brother, Chuck Chapa (Carol). Her nieces and nephews include Tina Sparks, Tom Sparks, Jim Newell, Heather Chapa and Adam Chapa. Her closest friends included Rosa Martinez, Suzanna Onellion and Barbara Birardi among others too many to mention, and her former husband Dennis Smith.

Jackie, as everyone called her, was devoted to the animal world. There was never an animal she didn't like. From admonishing a young boy fishing to cover his worms, to rescuing abused horses, she cared for them all.

She was a certified Animal Health Technician from Hartnell Junior College in Salinas and had exceeded that training on her own. She was an expert in breeding exotic birds and reptiles. The animals closest to Jackie were her Arab Mare “GinGin,” her pit bull “Carl” and her Jack Russell Terrier “Frisbee.”

Jackie was a member of the sober community in Lake County and had many years of sobriety. Her careers included in Monterey County: waitress, escrow officer, RV sales. In Lake County: Rays Food Place, Walmart, Herbie's Restaurant.

Jackie was also an excellent seamstress which included designing and sewing wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses. At one point, she was raising llamas and weaving their fur into knitting yarn. As per Jackie’s request her remains were donated to University of California – Davis for research.

A memorial service will be held at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 1625 N High St., Lakeport, on Feb. 4 at 2:30 pm.

There will be a potluck directly following the services at the Lakeport Fellowship, 2630 S. Main St. Donations in her memory should go to ASPCA, Safer Horse (Sonoma County), Animal Collation of Lake County or Hospice.

For further information please contact Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary at 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .