Ron Smith; Emmy-Winning Hairstylist

Ron Smith, 65, an Emmy Award-winning hairstylist to such stars as Nat King Cole, Ike and Tina Turner, Marvin Gaye, Count Basie and Sugar Ray Robinson. Smith shared an Emmy for his work in the TV movie “Mystic Warrior,” and was nominated for the award four more times. He styled hair for 16 films and, on television, 36 series, 11 specials, 23 movies of the week and several commercials. Most recently, he styled the hair of Avery Brooks, who plays the lead role of Cmdr. Benjamin Sisko in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” Born in Cleveland, Smith served in the Army from 1951 to 1957 and then began his career in a Cleveland barbershop. He moved to California and Le Coiffeur shop in 1963. One customer, Duke Ellington, was so impressed with Smith that he asked him to join his entourage. Smith worked as Ellington’s road manager for 12 years and was a featured commentator for a PBS special titled “Life With Duke.” On June 26 in Scottsdale, Ariz., of pneumonia.