Tia Tomlin Smith

Tia Tomlin Smith of Santa Barbara passed away on March 4, 2025 in Los Angeles from complications related to Huntington’s Disease. She was 55 years old.

The daughter of a Virginia-born civil servant father whose career included working in the White House and a Nebraska-born artist mother whose laughter could warm the coldest soul, Tia lived her life in Los Angeles, Sacramento, multiple parts of Virginia, and Scottsdale, AZ. But Santa Barbara was where she found a true home. A graduate of Old Dominion University, Tia made her living primarily in the hospitality industry, including Ojai Valley Inn and Cathedral Oaks Athletic Club. But work was merely something Tia did to pay the bills. Her primary goal was, admirably, living life to its fullest.

Tia’s infectious enthusiasm could light up any room and, just like her mother, served as an energy source for everyone she encountered. Hopelessly optimistic and fond of romantic comedies and large brown dogs, Tia loved to laugh, walk the beach, and eat outside. Quick to admit she was a lousy driver and chuckle about losing yet another pair of sunglasses, Tia instead focused her thoughts on others, always seeking their happiness and comfort before her own.

Her family would like to warmly thank the staff at Primrose Post-Acute in Inglewood, Dr. Philip Delio at Neurology Associates in Santa Barbara, and Mike Jack from Cal Coast MS for their kind and consistent support. We owe you all a debt of gratitude.

Tia is preceded in death by her father, Charles, and her mother Robyn. She is survived by her siblings Shannon, Shelly, Taylor, and Tucker.  If you knew her or have been impacted by Huntington’s Disease, her family kindly asks you to make a donation in her name to the CalCoastMS organization or the Huntington’s Disease Society of America.