IRMA SMITH

Irma Lucille Smith, 93, of Tonganoxie, KS, passed away peacefully on February 8, at Saint Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. She was born to Dave and Helen Pudwill on March 16, 1928, in Avon, where she spent most of her childhood.

Irma and her four children moved to Tonganoxie in 1963, where she met the love her life, Herbie Smith. They married in 1971 and planted roots in town, spending most of their time with their extended families and many friends made over the years. Irma worked as a beautician and later began a second career as a florist, in both Tonganoxie and McLouth. After retirement, Irma and Herbie enjoyed a variety of vacations ranging from long road trips together to cruises with friends, and also spent time at their farm in Oskaloosa. She was an active member of the Red Hat Society, her Bunco group and Tonganoxie United Methodist Church, where she worshiped regularly until her death.

Irma is survived by her four children, Ginger Wehner (Doug) of Lawrence, Jim Crain (Charlene) of Tonganoxie, Jackie Crain of Tonganoxie and Joy Murr (Bill) of McLouth, as well as Herbie’s two children Frank Smith (Jeanne) of North Carolina and Della Walters of Kansas City. She leaves behind 11 grandchildren, Eric Crain, Shannon Cates, Melissa Rieke, Allison Swaim, Travis Starcher, Lynne Perry, Tricia Murr, Jordan Smith, Justin Smith, Austin Smith and EJ Walters, as well as 14 great-grandchildren. She was lovingly cared for at home during the last several years by her friend and neighbor, Juana Flores. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbie Smith, and grandson, Brandon Smith.

Funeral services were held Friday, February 11 at Tonganoxie United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Irma’s name to Tonganoxie United Methodist Church.