Mary Jane Smith, age 70, passed away peacefully in her home on March 7th, 2024 after a short battle with cancer. Cremation has taken place as per her wishes. There will be a small service for family, Friday March 15th. A celebration of Mary Jane’s life will be scheduled for later in the year to include extended family members and the many friends that adored her. Condolences can be expressed online by visiting her obituary page at www.geringchapel.com.
Mary Jane was born December 4th, 1953 in Storm Lake, IA to Lois (Grigsby) Scudder & Harold Smith Jr. She is third in line of six children; 3 brothers: Steven, Michael, Russel and 2 sister: Amy Jessen & Lisa Fuller.
She has three “wonderful kids”: Micki, Stacy, and Greg. Married to Robert Waddell (1979-2000) and Guy Stevens (2001-2018). She leaves behind 5 grandchildren: Brianna, Sydney, Camryn, Felix, and Dayton; and 6 great grandchildren: Shevelle, Nova, Bentley, Hayden, Harper, and Mia.
Through the trials of life, Mary Jane enthusiastically supported and cheered for all of us. She was kind and generous, thoughtful and compassionate. When she passed, people started sharing stories of her kindness to them, how her humor enamored them, and how she, as herself, was a foundation for so many. She never stopped being curious and loved learning new things. At 58 she earned a degree online that led her to her role at Region 1 BHA where she enjoyed her work and her community of coworkers. Mary Jane was a creative person and, in many ways, a secret artist. She loved books and animals, nature, and really good coffee. A bright spot in every day, she is so dearly missed already.
Others who were part of her life and contributed to her daily joy include long time friend and neighbor Nancy Meier and dear friend Carl Hanson, both who were with her through the end. Her Granddaughter, Brianna, took on her 24 hr care during weeks before her passing and it meant the world to her.
She is preceded in death by her daughter Stacy, her husband Guy, her parents, and grandparents.