Elsie Althea Smith

     A life well lived.
     Elsie Althea Smith, age 96 of St Johns Michigan passed away peacefully at Grace Haven Assisted living on Monday, July 21, 2025. 
     Born on May 2, 1929, to R. Gordon and Caroline (Popovich) Stephens. Althea retired from General Telephone Company after 44 years of service that began at the age of 16. Following retirement, she volunteered at St Lawrence Hospital in Lansing for 25 years. Outside of work, much of her time was spent in her kitchen preparing meals and treats for family and friends. Her yard became one of her favorite places and her flowers flourished under her watchful care. Althea enjoyed traveling and was always ready for an adventure. She also treasured the many summers we enjoyed together at the family cottage in the Upper Peninsula.
     Althea is survived by her daughter, Mary (Pete) Donald of St Johns, MI; her son Steven (Tammi) Smith of Stagecoach Nevada; her grandchildren: Allison Bancroft of St Johns, Michigan; and Aaron (Amanda Ostrom) Donald of Shelby Michigan; along with great-grandchildren Eleanor Bancroft, Henry Bancroft, and Jack Donald; daughter-in-law, Patrice Smith of Bay City, Michigan; sisters-in-law: Marylin Stephens of Maple Rapids, Michigan; and Mary Jo Stephens of Jackson Michigan; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband William D. Smith, son Jim Smith, her sister Delores (Russell) McCarthy, brothers: Richard (Beatrice) Stephens, and Robert Stephens and stepsister Louise (Lloyd) Salisbury.
     We would like to express our sincere thanks to Dr. John MacDonald for the excellent care he provided to mom for many years. Also, the staff at Grace Haven Memory Care Unit for the loving care they provided to Mom during her stay. She enjoyed the time spent with staff, fellow residents and their families who so graciously welcomed her into their “family”. Also, thank you to Corso Care Hospice for the extra care given to mom over the past 6 months. Your visits and wellness checks were a welcome source of comfort to the family. 
     A Graveside Service will be held at Mount Rest Cemetery, St. Johns, MI, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 1:00 P.M., with Pastor Chris Miller officiating. A luncheon will follow at Main Street Café Banquet Room.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Althea’s memory to Grace Haven Memory Care Unit. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes-Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.