Elaine Smith

Elaine K. Smith, age 82, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at her home in Cascade Township, with her loving family by her side. She was born on March 20, 1943, in Grand Rapids, MI to Andrew and Minetta Welton. Elaine is a graduate from Big Rapids High School. She then attended Pillsbury College in Minnesota. After Max graduated college, she married the love of her life, Max Smith, on September 26, 1964, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. Elaine preferred to spend her time serving her Lord and her family over a career outside the home. She was a devoted member of the Kentwood Baptist Church where she was the organist for over 35 years and worked tirelessly in the children's ministry. Elaine enjoyed traveling with Max to foreign countries where she would volunteer her time through Our Daily Bread Ministries in the foreign country offices while Max attended meetings. Beyond her faith, Elaine enjoyed playing tennis where she played on the East Hills travel team for years. She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Max Smith; and their two sons, Kevin Max of Nashville, Derek (Leslie) of Comstock Park; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Faith Hospice and the Stoutjesdyk ladies for the care they provided Elaine during her declining health due to dementia. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 9, at Kentwood Baptist Church, 2875 52nd St SE. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Wednesday, October 8, from 6 - 8 p.m. at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St SE, Grand Rapids and on Thursday, October 9, from 10-11 a.m. at the church prior to the service. The family would like to invite you to join them for a luncheon following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Faith Hospice.