Today, by executive order, Governor Steve Sisolak ordered the flags of the United States and the State of Nevada to be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol and State public buildings and grounds from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, September 12, 2020 as a mark of solemn respect and in remembrance of Sparks Mayor Ronald E. Smith, whose memorial is being held today at the Nevada Veterans Memorial Plaza at the Sparks Marina Park.

“Today is once again a day to give homage to a wonderful man who dedicated his life to both military and community service,” said Gov. Sisolak. “First Lady of Nevada Kathy Sisolak and I extend our condolences again to his family, friends, and the community he served as they honor him today.”

Mayor Ronald E. Smith, a United State Navy Veteran, was also a longtime civil servant. He was as a City Councilman for the City of Sparks from 2006 to 2018, becoming Mayor in 2018. He was widely known for his efforts in Sparks focusing on key infrastructure projects as well as his vast contributions in recognizing and assisting the veteran community. Smith lost his battle with cancer in August 2020.