Patricia Smith

Patricia “Kaye” Smith, 85, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, at her home in Pierce City. She was born in Bethpage, on July 20, 1936; daughter of Vaughn and Christine (Brock) Kelly. Smith graduated from Rocky Comfort High School and then attended University of Arkansas where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority before transferring to Missouri Southern State University where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in education. Smith married JD on June 22, 1956, in Monett. He passed away on Dec. 12, 2011. Smith was an English teacher in Pierce City and Sarcoxie school districts. She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Pierce City, where she sang in the choir for many years.
Smith was a member of the Educational Club in Pierce City and was a founding member of the Roaring River Parks Alliance.
Surviving are the following: one daughter, Melissa (Patrick) Smith-Riddle of Pierce City; one sister, Pam Franzoy of Phoenix, Ariz.; one brother, Terry Kelly of Phoenix, Ariz., one granddaughter, Shellsea (Shaun) Finnegan of Aurora and two great-grandchildren.
Friends may come to visit at Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, from 10-5 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 3, 2022,
Graveside services and burial will be at Sparks Cemetery in Butterfield at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022.  Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.lakinfuneralhome.com.