Janice Adean Smith, 86, of Dubois, Idaho, returned home to her loving Heavenly Father on August 13, 2025, in Rigby, Idaho, surrounded by her family.
She was born on July 6, 1939, in the Idaho Falls LDS Hospital to Ben and Alice Ricks, and was the oldest sister to Lajuan, Sheryl, Alan, and Deborah Ricks.
On October 21, 1958, Janice was sealed to Ralph Vaughn Smith in the Idaho Falls Temple. Together, they built their life in Ririe, Lincoln, Ucon, and Medicine Lodge, Idaho. Janice worked as a secretary and a cook, but her proudest role was that of a loving mother.
A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Janice served in many callings and her strong testimony touched and inspired numerous lives. In 2004, she and Ralph served a mission in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she learned new ways to serve others and deepen her faith.
Janice loved the color purple, quilting, gardening, lilacs, reading, playing the piano, and camping with family. She enjoyed participating in community events and treasured the small, simple joys—like putting curlers in her children’s and grandchildren’s hair—a memory that still brings smiles today.
She is survived by her husband, Ralph Vaughn Smith; her six children, Quinn (Marilynn) Smith, Garland (JoEllen) Smith, Leilani Smith, David Smith, Melanie Smith, and Nathan (Lachele) Smith; 28 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great-grandchildren.
The family will be receiving family and friends Monday, August 18, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby. A graveside service will follow on Tuesday, August 19, at 10:30 a.m. at the Ririe Shelton Cemetery.
Janice never took the easy road; she always chose the path she felt was right. Her family found peace in her presence, wisdom in her guidance, and joy in her love. They are deeply grateful for the example she set, the time they had with her, the lessons she taught, and the faith she lived.
How blessed we are to have loved her so deeply that her presence will forever remain in our hearts. Though she has returned home, her love continues to walk beside us—steady, guiding, and never far away.
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