Bernice Helen Smith

Bernice Helen Smith, 101, of Iowa City, IA, passed away Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Solon Care Center. A visitation will be held from 3-5 PM, Monday, December 22, 2025, at Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service, Iowa City. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10AM, Tuesday, December 22, 2025, St. Mary's Catholic Church, Iowa City, a livestream will be available. Private burial will be held at St. Joseph Cemetery, Iowa City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mary's Catholic Church or St. Croix Hospice.

Bernice was born on March 26, 1924, in rural Johnson County, IA, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Stebral) Spevacek. She graduated from Newport #3 and University High School. Bernice received her clerical certificate from Brown's Business College and worked for Thompson Transfer and Johnson County Treasury Department for the Motor Vehicle Department, retiring in 1989. Bernice married Melvin Smith on February 8, 1949, at St. Mary's Church; he preceded her in death on June 22, 1999.

She loved to gamble specifically quarter slots but her true passion was shopping. Bernice loved to cook and bake; making her own Christmas candy and homemade noodles. She had a flower garden of petunia's and roses she cared for. Bernice and Melvin loved following the grandkids to all their sporting events, and spending time together.

Bernice is survived by her two children, Michael (Pamela) Smith and Bev (Tom) Seaton of Iowa City; Three grandchildren, Brad (Amber) Seaton of Iowa City, Mark (Jessie) Seaton of Marion, and Damien (Heather) Roth; five great grandchildren, Carter Seaton, Cale Seaton, Harper Seaton, Jake Roth and Lucy Roth.

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Melvin; and brother, Donald Spevacek.