Judith M. “Judy” Smith, 78, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at her home.
She was born September 21, 1945 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Robert G. and Alvina M. (Bauer) Lehl.
Growing up, Judy lived in several places throughout the panhandle before her family moved to Alliance in the early 1950’s. While in high school, Judy was active in 4-H and was also a cheerleader. She graduated from Alliance High School in 1963 and went on to the St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1964 as an LPN.
She married Evert W. Smith on February 12, 1967 in Alliance. To this union, three children were born; Anthony, who passed away a few short days after his birth, Cynthia, and Vicki. She and Evert were married 54 years before he passed away in 2021.
Judy began working at Bruce Furniture in Alliance when it was newly opened and continued there for several years. She also operated Sweet Bre’s Floral Shop for several years before her retirement.
She was active in Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She was also a Bluebirds Campfire Leader. Judy had a very strong faith in the Lord and was an active member of Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church.
Judy is survived by her daughters, Cynthia (Brian) Byer of Detroit, Michigan and Vicki (Tim Overshiner) Smith of Alliance; grandchildren, Breanna Smith-Cole and Zachariah Overshiner; great-granddaughters, Brooklynn & Jozzlyn Smith; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Anthony, husband Evert, and brothers, Roger, Jimmy, Robert Jr. and Chuck Lehl.
Memorial services will be held Thursday, January 25, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at the Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church. Pastor Richard C. Mueller will officiate. The service will be livestreamed at www.immanuelevlutheran.org/you-tube-channel. Inurnment in the Alliance Cemetery will be held later this spring.
Memorials may be given to Jane’s Closet, P.O. Bo 810, Alliance, Nebraska, 69301.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com. Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.