Marygene Ethel Smith

Marygene Ethel Smith
October 19, 1948 – October 31, 2025
With humble acceptance of God's will, Marygene Ethel Smith, 77, went home to be with Jesus on October 31, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones and friends after a courageous battle with cancer.
Marygene was born on October 19, 1948, in Hutchinson, Kansas, the second of three children born to Ellis Gene Smith and Maryann Ida (Wolfram) Smith. Raised in the Midwest alongside her brothers, she was taught the values of faith, family, and hard work. Her childhood was filled with camping, swimming, and roasting hot dogs - a true "Leave It to Beaver" upbringing.
After graduating from Dearborn High School in 1966, Marygene followed both of her parents' footsteps by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, where she trained as a computer programmer and stenographer. She served honorably and achieved the rank of Sergeant, a role that reflected her discipline, intelligence, and leadership.
Following her service, she worked in Oregon and later earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Concordia University in 1987, graduating Magna Cum Laude.
In 1993, Marygene answered God's call to serve as a missionary in Papua New Guinea, where she shared her deep faith, joy, and compassion with others until returning to the United States in 1997 - a time she often described as one of the most meaningful chapters of her life.
Marygene's heart for service extended far beyond her missionary work. She volunteered with Toys for Tots, served as Treasurer for the Women Marines Association OR-1 Chapter, and gave freely of her time and talents wherever she could. Even after her illness limited her physically, she found purpose in caring for others as a pet sitter, finding comfort in the companionship of animals and the trust of their owners.
After returning from missionary work, she taught in New York before moving to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to care for her mother. In 2003, she was diagnosed with cancer, beginning a long and courageous journey through treatments and surgeries. When doctors told her in 2012 that nothing more could be done, Marygene continued to live with grace and faith, reminding everyone around her that life is precious and God is good.
Marygene created not one, but two bucket lists. Her "travel bucket list" included flying in a hot air balloon, swimming with dolphins, seeing the Grand Canyon, and watching her goddaughter perform in a professional ballet. Her "emotional bucket list" included hosting a Bon Voyage Party, reconciling with her oldest brother, and ensuring her lifelong best friend Beverly was by her side until the end. With faith and perseverance, she accomplished every one of these goals.
Marygene is survived by her brothers Michael (Joan) Smith and Steven (Candee) Smith; nieces Michele and Jennifer; and great-nephew Isaac. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial celebration was held in her honor at the VA Hospice Center, surrounded by family and friends. In accordance with her wishes, Marygene's ashes will be scattered together with her mother's in the ocean, completing their journey together in peace and love.
Marygene will be remembered for her unwavering faith, joyful spirit, and the deep kindness she shared with everyone whose lives she touched.