Elissa Gale Smith (Speros)

Elissa Gale Smith (Speros) 71, of Ballwin, MO, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 9, 2024. She was surrounded by her family when she took her last breath this side of heaven. She courageously and graciously battled cancer for over two years. She was confident that earthly death was only the beginning of eternal life with Christ.

Elissa was born on July 10, 1953 in St. Louis, MO to the late William F. Speros and Antoinette Speros (Liolios). 

She is survived by her loving husband Gregory A. Smith, her son, Andrew T. (Ashleigh) Smith, daughter Taylor N. (Elvin) Chavez, grandchildren, Gabriel and Micah Smith and Athena and Ezra Chavez. She is also survived by two sisters Sherry (Don) Puckett and Hope (the late Jeff) Steiner, and her beautiful nieces and nephew Sarah, Laura, and Nathan. 

Her early life was full of joy and laughter. She loved her family and her Greek heritage. She adored her friendships, and she nurtured them beautifully. She was a brilliant student and an incredible artist. Her ability to draw, paint, and create was not only a craft, but a blessing to many over her lifetime. She used her gifts to uplift those around her.

Elissa graduated from the University of Missouri in 1975 with a BA in Education. She taught Special Education for several years before staying home and raising her precious son and daughter. Her greatest joy was to be called Mom and Yaya. She considered her grandchildren to be the crowning glory to her life on earth.

Her love of art enabled her to do many projects with her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. Her heart of hospitality and thoughtful gift-giving blessed countless people over her life. When she planned an event for friends and family, it was evident that her heart wanted them to feel special. Her ability to put others first was a powerful testimony to everyone. She truly was the hands and feet of Jesus.

Elissa was a woman who adored Jesus Christ with her whole heart. She loved her faith and lived it with her children and grandchildren. She believed in the absolute power of the Word of God, and she was confident in its promises. Her compassion, empathy, and discernment made her so beautiful. This is her legacy, and it will never be forgotten.  

In lieu of flowers for her funeral, Elissa wished that a donation be made to an organization that benefits children with autism and their families. We have chosen to donate to the Flutie Foundation and the Organization for Autism Research. And so her heart of compassion and generosity continues. 

Mama and Yaya, we love you forever, and ever, and always! Everlasting be your memory. 

Visitation will be held at the SCHRADER Funeral Home, 14960 Manchester Rd., Ballwin MO 63011, on Friday, September 20, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the funeral with Rev. Tim Goodman officiating. 

The graveside service will be held, Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. in Grandview Cemetery (11116 US-61, Hannibal, MO 63401).   

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV)