Charlotte Jean Smith

Charlotte Jean Smith, a beloved figure in her community and a cherished matriarch to her family, gracefully departed this world on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Baptist Home of Tri-County in Vandalia, MO. 

Her visitation will take place on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Waters Funeral Home, located at 500 S. Main Street in Vandalia, MO. The funeral service to honor her life will be held Friday, December 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Spencer Creek Baptist Church, located at 41403 Hwy P, Vandalia, Missouri. Rev Bob Hoehn will officiate. Burial will follow the service in Lick Creek Cemetery in rural Perry, MO.

Born on April 29, 1939, in Perry, MO, she lived a life filled with love, kindness, and devotion. Charlotte graduated from Paris High School in 1957, marking the beginning of a journey characterized by her unwavering spirit and joyful nature.

On May 17, 1959, in Santa Fe, MO, Charlotte was united in marriage to Daryle Smith, who remains a steadfast presence in her life’s story. Their bond, forged through years of shared experiences and affection, was a testament to the enduring power of love. Together, they nurtured a family that continued to flourish under Charlotte's warm guidance. She is survived by her devoted husband, Daryle Smith, of their home; her son, Rodney Smith, of Vandalia, MO; and her daughter, Crystal Church, of St. Louis, MO; sister-in-law, that was there for her when she need someone to talk to, go on shopping trips or help when her health started to decline, Carolyn Smith of Vandalia, MO. As a proud grandmother, Charlotte took immense joy in the lives of her grandchildren, Cassidy Elsner and her husband Blake, as well as Brennan Church, who brought her boundless happiness. The light of her life shone even brighter with the arrival of her great-grandchildren, Mac Elsner and Charlotte Elsner, the latter named in her honor.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Randy Davis, whose memories will forever remain a cherished part of her family’s legacy.

Charlotte's career as the City Clerk for the City of Center highlighted her commitment to her community, showcasing her dedication and service. Known for her joyful spirit, she was always there to lend a hand or share a smile with everyone she met. Her days were enriched with cherished moments spent with family and friends, whether it was shopping excursions with her daughter or engaging trips with her beloved husband. In her younger years, she found solace in gardening and expressed her creativity through sewing, where she also played a pivotal role in supporting her daughter with pageants.

Charlotte was a faithful member of Spencer Creek Baptist Church, where she was involved in the Spencer Creek Women's Group along with always there to lend a hand when she was needed.

Charlotte Jean Smith's legacy, intertwined with love, kindness, and joyful memories, will resonate within the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be profoundly missed but eternally remembered as a beacon of light and warmth in their lives.

Serving as pallbearers will be Lindel Jackson, Bill Himmelsbach, Larry Kyle, Russell Osterhaut, Brennan Church, Blake Elsner and Jerry Elliott. Those serving as honorary pallbearers for Charlotte will be Rhonda Elliott, Mary Jackson and Dickie Wasson.

Memorial contributions may be made to Spencer Creek Baptist Church in care of the Waters Funeral Home.

Online Condolences may be made to the family and video tribute viewed on Charlotte's memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com