Opal E. Smith

1927 - 2018

Opal E. Smith

Vero Beach, FL - Opal E. Smith passed away peacefully on January 23, 2018 at the VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, FL. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 43 years, Thomas Drew Smith.

Mrs. Smith was born in Elwren, IN on March 20, 1927 to Harry and Roxie Tague. She moved to Battle Ground, IN in 1944 where she graduated high school in 1945. She married Paul Bailey in 1953. They had two sons, Craig Bailey (Cindy) of Vero Beach, FL and Kevin Bailey of Elgin, IL, who survive. Paul passed away in 1968.

She married Thomas Drew Smith in 1974, and they made their home in Lafayette, IN until 1989 when they moved to Vero Beach, FL.

Also surviving are two step-daughters, Cathy Smith of Lafayette, IN and Cindy Clifford (Tom) of Indianapolis, IN. She has three granddaughters, Amy Lister and Melissa Clifford of Fishers, IN and Jill Heinzen (David) of Zionsville, IN. She was blessed with three great-granddaughters and four great-grandsons. She also leaves a very dear niece, Linda Bohlinger of West Lafayette, IN.

Mrs. Smith enjoyed crocheting, traveling to garage sales, and playing cards with her many friends, but perhaps her greatest joy was preparing wonderful feasts for her family as she was a tremendous cook. However she will be remembered most as a loving wife, mother, and dear friend to those fortunate enough to know and love her.

A funeral service will be held on February 1, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens in West Lafayette, IN. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Grace United Methodist Church in Lafayette, IN or to your local hospice organization.