Vera Jane Albright

1935 - 2024

Vera Jane Albright (née Smith), 89, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024, in Des Moines, Iowa. Born on March 10, 1935, in Prole, Iowa, she was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Vera dedicated her life to service, both in her professional and personal capacities. She earned a bachelor's degree in social work from the University of Kentucky and a master's degree from the University of Kansas. Her career included roles as a social worker in the Olathe school system for 10 years. Vera also lived a life full of love and commitment as a military wife for 22 years and a minister's wife for 23 years. Her missionary work took her to China, where she served for 7 years, living and sharing her faith. To the end of her life Vera possessed a deep and abiding love for China and its people.

A long-time member of Valley Church in West Des Moines, Iowa, Vera was deeply involved in various church activities. She volunteered regularly at Valley Church and Hope Ministries, tutored in the Des Moines school system, and cared for the dying at Mother Teresa's mission in Kolkata, India. She cherished the time spent in her home, tending her garden and spoiling her beloved cats Willie and Annie. She loved her time with friends, especially those wonderful meals shared with "the six pack". She travelled the world and was always up for an adventure. Vera loved her life, her family and her friends, but most of all she loved her Lord. Toward the end of her life she longed for her "real home". Well done good and faithful servant.

Vera was preceded in death by her husband the Reverend Clair Albright, her ex-husband Sergeant Major Herman Kennedy; her parents, Ruby Alexander Smith and Bruce Smith; her brothers, Charles and Fred Smith; her sister, Joan Files; and her daughter, Maureen Kennedy Gildon. She is survived by her loving family: Michael Kennedy (Merry Sandra), Colleen Kennedy (Ronald Lind), Patrick Kennedy (Holly), and Chris Albright. In addition she is survived by six grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren. Her warmth, kindness, and spirit of generosity will be missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at Valley Church on Saturday, September 21, 2024, with a luncheon to follow. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Valley Church/Pathfinders Class.

Des Moines Cremation of Des Moines, Iowa, is assisting the family with arrangements. Vera's legacy of kindness, compassion, and devotion will forever be cherished and remembered by her family, friends, and community.