Aletha Marie Smith

Aletha Marie Smith of Steelville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Washington, Missouri, with her family by her side. She was 81 years old. Aletha was born on October 12, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Paul and Enid (Gonzales) Smith. On July 6, 1961, she married the love of her life, Tom Smith. Together they built a beautiful life and were blessed with five children. A devoted homemaker, Aletha dedicated her life to raising her family. Her home was always filled with the smell of fresh cookies, warm meals, and love. She was an exceptional cook, but her true passion was baking-especially cakes, pies, and cookies. She loved hosting holidays, gathering her family around the table, and celebrating with meals she lovingly prepared. Aletha enjoyed Elvis Presley and old westerns, with Gunsmoke being one of her favorites. She had a special fondness for Halloween, always delighting in greeting trick-or-treaters and welcoming her grandchildren in costume. Later in life, after her children were grown, she worked at Gibbs Care Center in the laundry and housekeeping department. She found deep fulfillment in serving the elderly with kindness and care. Gifted with a green thumb, Aletha's African violets and rose bushes flourished under her care. She enjoyed watching hummingbirds flock to the feeders in her yard, often spending quiet moments outside appreciating their beauty. Above all, Aletha was known for her selflessness-she always put the needs of others before her own. She was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Aletha is survived by her children: Peggy Martin and husband Leroy of Steelville, MO; Learoy Smith of Steelville, MO; Chris Copeland and husband Ronnie of Bixby, MO; Mary Masterson and husband Frank of Sikeston, MO; and Kathy Smith and friend Dan Smith of Jefferson City, MO. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jimmy Todd (Rachel), Ashley Martin (Kevin Heuer Jr.), Jessica Copeland (Branden Buffington), and Jenny Holland (Josh); 11 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends. In addition to her parents, Paul and Enid Smith, Aletha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom Smith, who passed away in 2013. Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at North Lawn Cemetery in Salem, Missouri, where Aletha will be laid to rest next to her beloved Tom.