Marilyn Smith

            Marilyn Josephine Smith of Caledonia, Missouri, was born August 15, 1947, in Glennon, Missouri, to the late Lawrence Vandeven and Margaret (Terbrock) Vandeven. Marilyn departed this life Monday, February 20, 2023, having reached the age of 75 years, 6 months, and 5 days.

            On April 18, 1970, Marilyn was united in marriage to Gordon Smith. Together they happily raised their two sons and were blessed with many years together. 

            Marilyn is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Gordon Smith Sr. Two sons; David Smith of Caledonia, Missouri and Gordon Smith Jr. and wife Melissa of Caledonia, Missouri; Sister, Doris Brooks and husband Kevin of Farmington, Missouri; Brothers, Robert “Bob” Vandeven and wife Monica of Moscow Mills, Missouri, and Theodore “Ted” Vandeven and wife Anita of Leopold, Missouri; Six grandchildren, Chelleby Smith, Marisa Miller and husband Jason, Cameron Smith and wife Hannah, Jakob Smith, Harlee Smith and Nataliene Myer; Three great-granchildren; Evelyn Reeves Miller, Camila Elise Miller and Wren Ivy Miller; four nieces and five nephews and many other dear family members and friends.   

            Marilyn was very dedicated to her career in being a teacher, she enjoyed being FBLA advisor, and a school bus driver. Marilyn served the communities of Potosi R-3 and Valle R-6 school districts for thirty-six years.  She took great pride in her student’s achievements and helped them in so many ways to improve the future of all that she had the honor of knowing, and teaching throughout the years.  She loved raising her goats, she had an excellent craftsmanship and developed her own homemade soaps and milk.  Marilyn had a “Green Thumb.” She enjoyed gardening and planting her flowers and vegetables. She always took great pride in all her accomplishments. Marilyn was a pillar to her family and friends, and she will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.