Mary Smith

Mary E. Smith, age 62, of Iola, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at St. Luke's East Hospital in Lee's Summit, Missouri.

Mary Edith Smith was born on August 2, 1963, in Fort Scott, Kansas, the fourth of four children born to Otis and Ruth (Williams) Smith. She grew up in Yates Center, Kansas, later moving to Iola, where she lived the rest of her adult life.

Mary was known for her kind and resilient spirit. She maintained a positive outlook on life, never letting challenges get her down. She was quick to welcome anyone into her circle, "adopting" many friends as family. With remarkable resourcefulness, she expertly managed her household and finances, always making the best of what she had. Her hugs were the best and indescribable at the same time, they radiated warmth and made you want them to never end. Her sarcastic wit will be deeply missed. Mary shared a very close bond with her daughters, talking for hours on end, and she absolutely adored her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and an infant son, Skylee M. Fishback, in 1985.

Mary is survived by her daughters and their families, Chelisama A. Fishback and Shawniece T. Jimenez; and by two brothers and a sister, Randall L. Smith, Alzina Kress, and Joe Smith and wife, Anna.

A funeral service to honor Mary's life will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 1883 US Hwy 54, Iola, Kansas. The family will greet friends following the service in The Venue. Memorial contributions may be made to help defray final expenses and may be made in Mary's name to Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Condolences to the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.