Jo Smith

Jo Beth Smith, 85, of McPherson, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2012, at The Cedars in McPherson. She had been a McPherson resident since 1957, moving from Iola, Kansas.

She was born September 24, 1926, in Eastland County, Texas the daughter of Joe H. and Cora L. (Teston) Lilley. On September 10, 1957, she married James R. Smith in Mexico. He preceded her in death on August 21, 1996.

Jo worked many years in the real estate business and was formerly the owner of Smith Realty. She was a member of the McPherson Board of Realtors, Beta Sigma Phi sorority, and a Life Member of VFW Post #2715 Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a long-time member of Grace Lutheran Church in McPherson. Jo enjoyed gardening, cooking, and spending time with her granddaughters. In her last years, she especially enjoyed the company of her Beta Sigma Phi sisters and her many friends.

Survivors include: four children, Linda Walline and husband, Merle, of Kerrville, TX, Debra Kite and husband, Ron, of Wichita, KS, Russ Smith & wife, Patti, of Overland Park, KS, and Jon Smith & wife, Candy, of Wichita, KS; three granddaughters, Lisa Phetphadoung, Ashley Lear, and Sarah Smith, and four great-grandchildren.

Jo was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, James, a brother, two sisters, and a son, Von, in 1991.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, January 17, at Grace Lutheran Church with Pastor Dale Dumperth officiating. Burial will be in McPherson Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 to 8:00 PM Monday at Stockham Family Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

Memorials donations may be given to Grace Lutheran Church or The Cedars, in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 N Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. The family wishes to thank those people and the caring staff at The Cedars for the wonderful care she received. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jo Smith please visit our Sympathy Store.