Wilma Jean Smith

Wilma Jean Smith, 92, a beloved member of the Bethel community, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2023, at Ridgeway Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Owingsville.

She was born on November 16, 1931, in Carlisle, Kentucky to the late, George Elmer Roe and Hazel Cope Roe. Wilma was a loving wife to her late husband Elgin "Buck" Smith and a devoted mother, Nan-Nan, sister, and friend.

Wilma led a fulfilling life as the Manager of the Owingsville City Pool for many years. She took great pride in ensuring that the pool was a safe and enjoyable place for the community to gather during the summer months. Wilma's dedication to her work touched countless lives, as she created cherished memories for generations of families.

Outside of her professional life, Wilma found joy in being a homemaker and dedicating herself to her family. She took pleasure in nurturing her loved ones and creating a warm and welcoming home for all who entered. Her gentle spirit and nurturing nature were evident in everything she did.

In her free time, Wilma indulged in various hobbies and interests. She had an insatiable love for reading, seeking solace within the pages of books that transported her to different worlds. Additionally, crossword puzzles challenged her mind and allowed her to exercise her cognitive abilities in an entertaining manner. Guided by strong faith, Wilma also taught Sunday School and shared her wisdom with young minds.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Elgin "Buck" Smith, her daughter, Kim Smith, two sisters, Georgia Lee Willoughby, Nellie Maye Brierley and one brother, James Harlan Roe. 

Above all else, Wilma cherished spending time with her family. Her devotion to them was unmatched. Survivors include her son Todd Smith, her granddaughter of whom she raised as her own daughter, Ashlea Hutchison (Jason) of Bethel, two grandchildren, Caleb Crouch and Carlea Shaye Leach (Ryan), one brother, Wayne Roe, three sisters, Doris Ann Cannon of Carlisle, Mary Ellen Roe and Sue Earlywine both of Paris and several nieces and nephews. Each of these individuals will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

The funeral service will be conducted Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Michael R Gray Funeral Home located at 89 Slate Ave in Owingsville, Kentucky. Prior to the service, a visitation will take place from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM., also at Michael R Gray Funeral Home. Following the funeral service, Wilma will be laid to rest at Longview Cemetery at Bethel.

Pallbearers include Todd Smith, Caleb Crouch, Jason Hutchison, Ryan Leach, Stevie Guy and Gary Sorrell.

In this time of mourning, may we find comfort in the memories we shared with Wilma Jean Smith. Her unwavering love, kindness, and commitment to family will forever symbolize the remarkable person she was. Though she may no longer be physically present with us, her spirit will continue to guide us and inspire us to live our lives with love and compassion.