Smith, Jeanne 1943-2024 Agency, Mo.

By NewsPress Now

AGENCY, Mo. – Lydia Jeanne Smith, 80, Agency, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at her home.

She was born on Dec. 6, 1943, to James H. and Lillian L. (Funk) Hand, in South Bend, Indiana.

Jeanne attended Kansas State University and earned her bachelor’s degree in education and physical education. She worked as a dedicated elementary teacher in West Chicago, Illinois, and in Sioux City, Iowa. During the summer, she worked as a Campfire Girls counselor. Another accomplishment she achieved was having her pilot’s license.

On Aug. 30, 1964, she married James D. Smith. For nearly 60 years, they embarked on many adventures together.

She was a member of the Frederick Boulevard Baptist Church, in St. Joseph. She was also a former member of the Christian Women’s Club, in Sioux City, and was active with Pivotal Point and Mid-City Excellence, in St. Joseph. Jeanne served as a mentor for fellow Christian women as she helped them navigate life’s challenges.

Jeanne was an avid gardener who also enjoyed riding motorcycles and going for horseback trail rides with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Survivors include her husband, James D. Smith; children, Allyn Smith (Pamela) and Amy Papageorges (Pete); six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 10 a.m. Tuesday, Frederick Boulevard Baptist Church. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Mid-City Excellence.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.