Cheryl Ann Smith

Cheryl Ann Smith, 80, of Norton, KS, was called home to Jesus on March 2, 2026 at the Norton County Hospital. She was born November 4, 1945 in Norton, KS to Quinton and Frances (Finch) Ingram.

Cheryl grew up in Norton, graduating from Norton Community High School in 1963. She attended classes at Fort Hays State University and later finished her associate's degree in applied arts through Colby Community College. Cheryl worked as a District Accountant for the Kansas Department of Transportation for 22 years. Deeply connected to her roots, Cheryl remained an active member of the NCHS Class of 1963 and treasured her Friday morning breakfasts with her close circle of friends. Her love of history led her to devote countless hours to researching Norton County, both personally and for the Norton County Museum. She proudly shared her knowledge with the community, writing 32 articles for the Norton Telegram in the "Small Town Big History" column. Cheryl had a gentle soul and a deep love for animals and the simple beauty of nature. She delighted in tending to her flower and vegetable gardens, often creating charming pathways lined with the antique bricks she lovingly collected.

Cheryl poured her whole heart into her family. Their laughter, accomplishments, and togetherness were her most treasured blessings. She will forever be remembered as a joyful, steady presence behind family traditions such as the Animal Tree, Easter Games, annual Mother-Daughter weekends, and "Wakapolajosmith" gatherings.

Cheryl is survived by the love of her life for over 40 years, Kevin "Turk" Lacy of the home; daughters: Tara Smith (Kevin Woods) of Schoenchen, KS, Amye (Bill) Jones of Norton, KS, and Jennifer Jo (Dan) Porter of Norton, KS; grandchildren: Riley Kaus, Madison (Chris) Brice, Elley Kaus, Silas Jones, Eli Jones, Levi Jones, Jordan (Kayla) Wahlmeier, Quinton (Julia) Porter, Landon Porter (and fiancée Cheyenne Rhoades), Courtland Porter (and fiancée Raye Kasson), and Avery (Garrett) Urban; 3 great-grandchildren and one on the way; brother, William Ingram, and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and Kevin's beloved mother Annaline Lacy.

Funeral services will be held at 11:11 am Friday, March 6, 2026 at Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Prairie View Cemetery, Prairie View, KS. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 pm Thursday, March 5 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Norton County Museum or the Second Chance Homeless Pet Society and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com