Dr. Todd Smith of Palo Alto, California, passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the age of 85. He is survived by Sandy, his wife of 55 years; his sons Kevin (Alicia) and Alex (Elaine); his grandchildren Neal, Penny, Conner, and Katie; and his sister, Susan Noble (Ward).

Todd received a Bachelor’s degree in physics from Cornell University and a PhD from Rice University. As a Stanford University professor of physics, he mentored graduate students while doing pioneering low temperature research at the Hansen Experimental Physics Laboratory. He was a member of the Stanford team that developed the free electron laser (FEL), a tunable laser capable of producing extremely high powered, precise bursts of coherent radiation, now in use worldwide for research in many scientific fields.

Todd played a central role at the Stanford Superconducting Accelerator – Free-Electron Laser (SCA-FEL), which served for decades as a powerful and flexible research instrument both for the utilization of tunable infrared radiation, and as a platform for advancing free-electron laser technology.  His influence and contributions have been felt throughout the field as he engaged with many other FEL and accelerator development efforts.  His contributions range from basic beam theory to overall accelerator system architecture, novel electron beam sources, and high-power energy-recovery FELs.

In 1990 he and Luis Elias were co-awarded the 3rd international FEL prize, given for significant contribution to the advancement of the field of free electron lasers. In 1999 he was elected to Fellowship in the American Physical Society.

Todd could fix almost anything mechanical or electrical. Upon retirement, he volunteered with local Repair Cafés, and fixed clocks, lamps, and heaters for friends and strangers. He loved a detailed discussion about the latest science and technology with his sons.

Todd was known to his friends and family for his intelligence and quick wit. His puns made family and friends groan as often as they laughed, and he could tell a great story, often better with each retelling. He also loved to travel; he and Sandy traveled the world in trains, planes, buses and boats. In the last three weeks of his life, they explored Ireland and Scotland, including riding together in a horse drawn cart through the wilds.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bay Area Glass Institute, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose, CA 95112, or to a charity of your choice.

John Lewellen can be reached by email at [email protected]