Services for Lenora Jane Smith, 93, who passed away Thursday, March 27, 2025, at St. Luke Living Center, Marion, were scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday April 2, 2025, at Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, Marion.

Pastor John Branson was to have presided. Her family gathered with friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the funeral home.

Lenora was to be laid to rest in Grant Township Cemetery.

Her life began Oct. 4, 1931, near Navarre. Her parents were William and Alma (Behrens) Kracke. Lenora attended grade school in one-room Walnut Grove School near Woodbine and graduated from high school in Chapman.

She was raised on a traditional family farm, where she cared for chickens, cattle, and horses. On Oct. 17, 1959, in Woodbine, she was united in marriage to Richard Lee Smith.

Lenora was a homemaker and foster parent. She and Richard foster-parented more than 20 children. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed trips to Branson and Colorado. She also enjoyed collecting antiques and going to auctions.

She is survived by children Mark Smith of Marion, Christine Smith of Hillsboro, Jolene Gayle (and husband Steve) of Florence, John Smith (and wife Amy) of Marion, and Mick Smith (and wife Desire) of Hoisington.

Also surviving are grandchildren Levi Smith, Daniel Smith, Andrew Gayle (and wife Emmy), Elisa Forbes (and husband Adam), Josh Gayle (and wife Larissa), Amy Gayle, David Smith (and wife Janie), Jacob Smith, D.E. Smith, D.J. Smith, Maleia Smith, Candice Smith, Zoe Smith, and Tristian Smith.

Other survivors include nine great-grandchildren, siblings Arlene Ingrum and Audrey Lardenois, and several nieces and nephews. Her parents, husband, and brother Otto Kracke preceded her in death.

Memorial contributions in her name may be directed to the Marion or Florence public libraries.

Please sign her online guestbook and leave a memory of Lenora at www.yazelmeglifh.com.