Allyne Levoit Smith Jr.

Allyne Levoit Smith Jr., age 70, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 20, 2025, in Des Moines, IA. Born March 13, 1955, in New Orleans, LA, Allyne embodied the virtues of compassion and kindness cultivated in a lifetime of spiritual practice.

Allyne earned a Doctorat en Théologie from Institut Orthodoxe Français de Paris Saint‐Denys, a Master's in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and an M.Div. from Nashotah House Episcopal Theological Seminary. He graduated with a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Southern Mississippi. His spiritual journey included and transcended traditions east and west. His chosen name as an Orthodox Christian priest was Father Lev and he was known as Jakusan amongst his Zen Buddhist friends, meaning "peaceful mountain."

Allyne lived and traveled many places around the world before settling in Des Moines, Iowa where he moved for a teaching job at Des Moines University and met the love of his life, Peg, whom he married in 2001.

He was a loving and deeply devoted son to his mother Martha, affectionately known as Mawmaw, and a loving father in the life of his children, Brendan and Rachel. In addition to being a caring stepfather to Peg’s kids, he recently became Grand-père (“grandpa” in French) to his granddaughter, Luciana. She made his face light up with joy and their connection was one of unparalleled and pure love— they made each other's faces light like nobody else could.

He was an educator, philosopher, theologian, and writer. He authored many publications, including the book, Philokalia, or “love of the beautiful.” With Dostoevsky, one of his favorite writers, he believed that "beauty will save the world.” As an Orthodox priest, he cherished the beauty of the liturgy and the sacraments of communal worship. Allyne passed before being initiated as a Zen teacher, yet he taught several online mindfulness courses, guiding others in cultivating the virtues of loving-kindness and compassion through the practice of meditation.

Known for his gentle nature, extraordinary intellect, and dry humor, Allyne was loved and highly respected by people around the world. Among his many interests, he was passionate about movies, literature and playing international chess.

Allyne is survived by his loving wife, Peg Smith; his mother, Martha Smith (Mawmaw); his children, Brendan Smith (Kelly Connors); and Rachel Smith. His stepchildren: Mabel Darling, Kelli Mabe, and Lindsey Mabe (Carlos Toledo); his granddaughter, Luciana Carolina; his brother Beau (Becky) Smith; his niece Tara (Shawn) Dominguez; his nephew, Justin Smith and numerous relatives, and many friends around the world. He was preceded in death by his father, Allyne Levoit Smith Sr.

We will miss his compassionate presence, intellectual generosity, and unwavering gentleness.

Memorials are suggested to the family for designation at a later date. 

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com