Darwood Kenneth Smith

Darwood Kenneth Smith, better known as "Waldo" in the "Our Gang" and "Little Rascals" features of the 1930s and 40s, was killed Wednesday (May 15) when he was struck by a small tan truck (according to witnesses) while walking on a Riverside, California sidewalk. He was 72. The driver then fled the scene and is being sought by the Riverside police.

Before pursuing a lifelong career as a pastor in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, "Darwood Kaye" portrayed the well-dressed and bespectacled "rich kid" in 22 of the Hal Roach comedies, from 1937-40. The Waldo character would frequently vie with rival suitor Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer for the attentions of the always-flirtatious Darla Hood. But at age 15, upon becoming a Christian, Darwood Kaye abruptly left show business after an appearance in the 1946 film, "My Reputation".

Pastor Darwood K. Smith, born September 8, 1929 in Ft. Collins, Colorado, is survived by his wife, Jean. Like their father, his four sons are also pastors.

We extend our most heartfelt sympathies to Pastor Smith's family and his many friends.