Stephanie Ferol Smith

Stephanie Ferol Smith (Taylor), 78, of Rochester Hills, Michigan, passed away peacefully and comfortably on January 30, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on November 27, 1947, in Lansing, Michigan, Stephanie lived a life defined by connection, joy, and an unwavering belief in love and possibility. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, and to know her was to feel seen, welcomed, and genuinely cared for.

Stephanie was preceded in death by her husband, David "Fred" Smith, to whom she was married for 46 years before his passing in 2013. She later found companionship and joy with her partner of 11 years, Doug Shonk. Together they shared a love of the gym and swimming, mornings followed by breakfast, dinners out, and simply enjoying each other's company.

She is survived by her son, David (Dave) Smith, his wife Christine (Christy) Smith, her daughter, Heather Smith, and her beloved grandchildren, who were the great joy of her life. Stephanie was deeply devoted to her grandchildren and took an active, loving role in each of their lives. She is also survived by her sisters Christine Taylor, Roberta Henrion, and Annette Madrid, as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Stephanie was a homemaker by role, but an artist at heart. When she was young, a family asked her to help rearrange their furniture, and that simple request sparked a lifelong passion. A self-taught decorator, she had a remarkable eye for creating spaces that felt right, balancing beauty, function, and warmth, and making homes feel welcoming and alive.

She invested deeply in her friendships and cultivated a large, close-knit circle that meant the world to her. An avid reader, she also loved gardening, swimming with friends, attending Book Club, crafting, knitting, and simply gathering people together. She had a way of being at the heart of every gathering, a presence so steady and joyful that she was affectionately known as both "Queen Stephanie" and "Grams," nicknames that reflected how deeply she was loved by her family.

A spiritual person at her core, Stephanie believed in joy, love, hope, and the power of the universe. She saw the good in everyone and modeled those values daily. Her positive perspective and enduring attitude, even in the face of an ALS diagnosis, amazed and inspired her family and friends. In her final chapter, she remained connected and engaged, surrounded by conversation and care, a reflection of the life she lived and the relationships she cherished.

Visitation and service arrangements will be held at Potere-Modetz Funeral Home in Rochester, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Team Gleason, whose support was a meaningful resource during Stephanie's ALS journey. Flowers and plants are also welcome, in keeping with her love of them.