In the midst of comedian Dick Smothers’ joyous remarriage, a somber undertone emerges with the tragic news of his first wife, Linda Smothers. Linda, who had been living a relatively private life after her separation from Dick, met a heartbreaking end at Mercy Hospital. This article seeks to shed light on the life and untimely passing of Linda Smothers.
The Untold Tragedy
Linda Smothers, the former wife of the renowned comedian, passed away at Mercy Hospital on the very day Dick Smothers embarked on a new chapter of his life by remarrying. The hospital spokesperson, Norman Greene, revealed that Linda, aged 48, succumbed to the injuries sustained in a devastating accident on September 9 in San Diego.
Multiple fractures and internal injuries were the result when Linda was struck by a car. Despite being rushed to Mercy Hospital and placed on life support, she remained in a coma. It was a heart-wrenching decision for her family to request that she be allowed to peacefully pass away, considering her irreversible brain death.
A Delayed Announcement
In an unusual turn of events, Linda’s family chose to delay the announcement of her passing. The motive was rooted in compassion and respect for Dick Smothers’ wedding plans. Dick, aged 47 at the time, was set to marry Lorraine M. Martin, a 27-year-old Washington socialite, on that fateful Friday night in McLean, Va.
Norman Greene explained, ‘The family wanted the information withheld from everyone. They particularly didn’t want it to affect his marriage plans.’ Despite the tragedy, the family opted to shield Dick from the news temporarily, showing a gesture of kindness and consideration.
‘They must have been on good terms,’ Greene remarked. ‘Dick Smothers called the hospital repeatedly asking about her condition. The family wanted to reciprocate the kindness.’
The Investigation Continues
Linda Smothers’ life took an unexpected turn when she and a friend were struck by a car while crossing a street in a marked crosswalk in San Diego. The incident occurred just a day after her move from Los Angeles to San Diego. The San Diego police confirmed the ongoing investigation into the accident, seeking to unravel the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
As Dick Smothers celebrated the beginning of a new marriage, the untimely demise of Linda Smothers adds a poignant layer to the narrative. The delayed announcement reflects the family’s desire to preserve the sanctity of Dick’s joyous occasion. Linda’s story, marked by tragedy and untold struggles, unveils the complexities that often remain obscured behind the scenes of public figures’ lives.