Nelda Ruth Smith

Nelda Ruth Smith was born on January 10, 1938, in Haleyville, Alabama. She departed this earthly life peacefully on November 6, 2025, while holding hands with her loving daughter Kay Elmore.
Nell lived a life full of generosity, kindness, and strength. She had a passion for family and hosted several family reunions inspiring strong family ties. Her doors were always open, and she was quick to lend a helping hand. She worked for many years in the family heating and cooling business in Joliet, Illinois with her husband Lavon (Cy) Smith and son Mike Smith. The pair were inseparable as they enjoyed fishing, antiquing, and visiting their cabin in Wisconsin. This is where her ashes will be joined with Cy's and spread at their favorite lake where they shared so many wonderful memories. She spent many summers there with her grandchildren; Michael, Jordon, Laura, and Steve.
Later in life, after her beloved husband Cy and son Mike had passed, she moved to San Antonio, Texas. Here she spent time enjoying the casino with Kay and her granddaughter-in-law Katie. She would often go to the thrift stores and have lunch with her grandson Steve along with Kay, Jim, and Katie. She also enjoyed many fun events at her retirement home with her granddaughter Laura and her family Greg, Willow, and Eleanor; where they would share stories as the girls played in her apartment.
She will be deeply missed by so many. Her beautiful friends and partners in crime Bonnie, Dora Jean, and Eva. Her beloved brother Ron (Nancy) Gravitt; whom she was able to visit this year. She will also be missed by her grandchildren; Michael Smith (Jessica), Jordon Smith, and great-grandchildren; Makenlee and Montgomery. Cherished nephew Tim and his wife Kathy Farris came to visit her this year in San Antonio. Her loving daughter-in-law Judy Smith also came to visit and cheered her on at the fashion show last month. And last, her loving daughter Kay and her husband Jim Elmore, who surrounded her with love, took care of her until the very end and so much more.
Please find comfort in knowing she will be greeted with open arms by loved ones since passing at the gates of Heaven.
She will be missed greatly.