Leota Smith

Leota Ann (Beckley) Smith, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, went home to be with Jesus on April 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of a life well lived. She was born on March 2, 1935, in Blount Township, Illinois, where her story began—a life that would be marked by deep faith, unwavering love for her family, and a strong, spirited nature.

She graduated from Kingman High School in Kingman, Indiana in 1953. She married the love of her life, Marion Edgar “Ed” Smith Jr., on December 31, 1954. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. 

Leota and Ed lived in Veedersburg, Indiana until 1975. In 1975, they moved to Springfield, Missouri, where they continued their life of ministry and service. Leota poured her heart and soul into missions and was a faithful member of Grace Bible Baptist Church for over 50 years. Her dedication to her church and her passion for serving others were a reflection of the deep faith she carried throughout her life.

She was very caring and hardworking, loving and always there for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her heart overflowed with love. She had a feisty spirit, a knack for always being punctual, and the ability to always have a good joke ready—bringing laughter and light to those around her. Her door was always open to others, even if they weren’t “family.”

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers and sisters; her loving husband, Ed Smith; and her grandson, Paul Hooper III.

She is survived by her children: Dorothy Hooper of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Loyal Smith and his wife, Mary Ellen, of Ellisville, Missouri; and Cathy Herron and her husband, Kevin, of Springfield, Missouri.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: John Hooper and his wife, Jessica; Stephen Hooper and his wife, Kim; Hannah Hooper; Ruth Hooper; Rachel Hooper; Tim Hooper and his wife, Jen; Sarah Andreasen and her husband, Jacob; Rebekah Hooper; Andrew Hooper; Naomi Hooper; Esther Hooper; Joanna Hooper; Abigail Hooper; Russell Smith and his wife, Lindsay; Casey Smith and his wife, Hunter; and Stephen Jennings and his wife, Phallin.

Leota was blessed with 31 great-grandchildren.

Her legacy of faith, love, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she now rests in the presence of her Savior.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.