Mildred Boyer Smith's Obituary
Mildred Boyer Smith, a beloved matriarch, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024, at the age of 95 in Virginia, Minnesota. Surrounded by love at Edgewood Vista Community, she left this world with the same grace and faith she exhibited throughout her life. Born on May 22, 1929 in Indianapolis, Indiana, Mildred led a life defined by resilience, creativity, and unwavering devotion to the Lord. Mildred, known by many as “Gram,” was a beacon of strength and dignity, whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her testament and legacy throughout her life will forever be cherished.
Mildred grew up in a loving family and attended George Washington High School. She went on to study art at the John Herron School of Art, where she nurtured her talent as an exceptional watercolor artist. Mildred's creativity and passion for the arts would become one of her defining legacies, touching the lives of many through her work.
In her youth, Mildred met and married the love of her life, Howard Alvin Smith. Together, they raised two wonderful children, David (Patti) and Debbie (Mike), and created a life filled with love and warmth. Despite the unimaginable loss of her husband, Howard, and both of her children, David and Debbie, Mildred’s faith in the Lord and perseverance were a testament to her inner strength. Even in the face of immense tragedy, Mildred's unwavering trust in the Lord sustained her. She embraced her role as the family matriarch, guiding her loved ones with wisdom and grace. Her strength and resilience inspired her family to persevere through life's challenges, reminding them of the importance of love, faith, and family bonds.
Mildred is survived by her devoted daughter in law and best friend, Patti Smith, who provided unwavering support throughout her later years and Mike (Frances) Smith. She leaves behind a rich legacy of love and strength, embodied in her ten cherished grandchildren: Chan (Rebecca) Smith, Greg (Laura) Smith, Christina (Dustin) Barnes, Jenna (Teddy) Asuma, Shannon (Jack) Silberman, Claire (Matt) High, Melissa (Tyler) Ogilvie, Leah (Franklin) Martin, Catherine (Rob) Reetz and Marcus (Cady) Livesay. She also leaves behind 19 great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy in her later years, each of whom will carry a piece of her loving spirit within them.
Mildred was the symbol of a true matriarch to her family; known for her wisdom, grace, faith, and unshakable positivity. She held a beloved presence in her family, friends and community, which left a mark on the hearts of her loved ones. Her memory will be forever cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her ability to find beauty in every moment are a beautiful testament to her life. She leaves behind a rich legacy of creativity, wisdom, faith, and grace that will continue to inspire future generations.
A celebration of life will be held at Emmanuel Methodist Church in Memphis, TN, on November 7th, 2024 where family and friends will gather to honor and remember her remarkable life. Visitation will begin at 10:00, followed by the memorial service at 11:00.
If you wish to submit a donation in her memory, please consider donating to the Angel Fund with ALS:
You may also send them a check to the following address:
The ALS Association
1950 Craig Rd. Ste. 200 S
St. Louis, MO 63140
For Line:
In Memory of Mildred Smith for Bronczek Blessings Angel Fund
What’s your fondest memory of Mildred?
What’s a lesson you learned from Mildred?
Share a story where Mildred's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Mildred you’ll never forget.
How did Mildred make you smile?