Donna (Richcreek) Smith 1938 - 2010

Donna J. Smith Battle Creek

Donna J. Smith, 72, of Battle Creek, died with her family at her side on Wednesday, September 22, 2010, at Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Care Residence.

She was born on June 22, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois to Donald M. and Margaret (Snyder) Richcreek.

As a child Donna grew up in Northern Indiana and as a teenager in Independence, Missouri, where she graduated from high school. She received her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Central Missouri State University. Donna taught school in Denver. Colorado and then worked for three years as a Flight Attendant for TWA.

Donna loved helping children and was employed as a substitute teacher for the schools in the Calhoun County area, primarily teaching students at Battle Creek Public and Pennfield Schools.

Donna was united in marriage to Morris L. Smith in Independence, Missouri on July 13, 1962.

Surviving are Morris, her husband of 48 years; her son and daughter-in-law, Jeffrey and Leslie Smith of Cherry Hills Village, Colorado; her three precious grandchildren, Cole, Elle and Bowen Smith; and her aunt, Eloise Smith of Tucson, Arizona.

Donna expressed her love for everyone, no matter where she met them or who they were; through her gift of gab, her ability to relate personally to others and her concern for all their needs.

She attended North Avenue Church of God and was a docent at Binder Park Zoo. She enjoyed gardening and was a member of the Farm & Garden Club and the Leila Arboretum Society. Donna volunteered for many community activities including the former Leila Follies. She was an avid reader and involved in many of the activities at Willard Public Library. Most of all Donna loved people; she was warm and caring, whether you were family or someone she met for the first time.

Memorial services to celebrate Donna's life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in memory of Donna may be made to Binder Park Zoo or Willard Public Library.