Myrna Ann Smith

In Loving Memory of Myrna Ann Smith (Kraegel) April 22, 1939 – June 30, 2025

For 86 beautiful years, the world was graced by the gentle presence of Myrna Ann Smith (Kraegel) — a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend; a proud York High School Duke; a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School; and a woman whose every day was lived with intention, grace, and gratitude.

Myrna was the kind of person who lit up a room not by commanding attention, but by offering it — fully and lovingly. Fierce in faith, rich in compassion, and unwavering in her dedication to doing things right, she was the epitome of Mark Twain’s “It is never wrong to do the right thing.”

Myrna lived by strong faith, love, and example. She brought quiet strength and unmatched warmth to everyone she encountered—never seeking attention, but always giving it. Her love story with her late husband, James A. Smith, Sr., was one of laughter, partnership, and enduring devotion. Together, they raised three children—each born three years apart—in a rhythm that reflected their thoughtful, intentional lives. Myrna is lovingly remembered by her children: Patricia Lynn Fors (Luther), James A. Smith, Jr., and Deborah Ann Gayon (Mark), and cherished as “Grandma” to McKenna, Zachary, and Delaney, who were the lights of her life. She filled each day with love and dedication, attending countless swim meets, choir and orchestra concerts, softball games, and award ceremonies, always cheering, guiding, supporting, and showing up. She was, without question, all in.

Gratitude, dignity, loyalty, and kindness weren’t just values — they were her way of being. Myrna was the heart of every family tradition: Sunday dinners, lobster at Christmas, fondue on New Year’s Day, canning tomatoes, attending church weekly in the beloved second row, and a signature red wine in her “M” glass. She believed in doing things well, on time, and with love — from her perfectly planned meals to her two toots and a wave goodbye from the driveway.

Some of Myrna's volunteer efforts reflected deep commitment to helping others. Her life was a constant testament to selfless giving, always putting others first. Every year, she organized Toys for Tots drives and coordinated holiday gift-giving for those in need, never seeking the spotlight but ensuring that those less fortunate felt seen and cared for. She dedicated herself to numerous causes, from annual blood drives, the Northern Illinois Foodbank, St. Paul Quilters, and the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, quietly strengthening her community. A meticulous planner and skilled seamstress, Myrna poured countless hours into crafting dresses for Girls Across the World and creating prayer quilts for those facing hardships, all driven by an immense generosity of spirit. Whether through handwritten notes, carefully set tables, or simple acts of kindness, Myrna’s thoughtfulness left an indelible mark, teaching her family the profound power of living with care and appreciation.

She loved the sunshine, the quiet joy of tending her gardens, and the thrill of spotting Sandhill Cranes in flight. With gentle care, she raised Monarch caterpillars and delighted in watching them transform into beautiful butterflies. Each spring, she eagerly awaited the first bloom of Bloodroot—a small miracle she never took for granted. Her life was guided by a joyful curiosity, a constant wonder at the world around her.

She loved the road: a steady hand at the map, always ready for a country drive, a Morton Arboretum loop, or a trip to the farmer’s market. And in her convertible, she found her freedom — top down, wind in her hair, and a smile on her face.

Myrna displayed quiet strength and a heart full of joy. She maintained lifelong friendships — from Kindergarten classmates to loyal neighbors. Her discretion was legendary. With her, you were safe, seen, and truly heard. She had elegance and grit, etiquette and warmth, presence and peace. Her legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the countless lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her beloved Jim, and leaves behind a world made better by her love. Her life was a masterpiece of kindness and peaceful joy. And while we ache in her absence, we remain deeply thankful that she was — and always will be — ours.

While she loved flowers, the family asks that you honor Myrna’s legacy by extending random acts of kindness — just as she always did.

If you wish to make a donation, please do so to the Dress a Girl Around the World charity: Donate | Dressagirlaroundthew or Ascension Hospice Residence: Make a Gift | Ascension Illinois Foundation.