Joan Smith, age 89, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Friday, August 1, 2025, in Salina, Kansas.
Joan was born September 18, 1935 in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, to John and Beatrice Bricker. She spent her early years in Waynesboro, PA where she enjoyed carrying around her pet duck and kitty, Tommy. She worked as a cashier at a 5 and 10 store, until she met the love of her life, Alvey Smith, at a roller-skating rink. Alvey stated, “We’ve been going in circles ever since.” They married on March 27, 1954. Nearly two years later, they were blessed and delighted to welcome their beloved first daughter, Teresa.
In Maryland, 1962, while attending a Baptist church, Joan and Alvey accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior. Soon after, they were blessed with their second daughter, Tina. Joan found joy teaching a young children’s Sunday School class and singing in the church choir. She also served as secretary for her husband’s personal drywall business, “Lord & Smith.”
Joan loved the ocean and often said it was her favorite place to relax. She had a green thumb, loved her flower garden and enjoyed feeding and watching birds outside. Her hobbies included embroidery, crocheting, plastic canvas, crafts and puzzles. She earned the nickname “Spunky” in her ladies’ Maryland Duckpin Bowling League and later bowled with Alvey in a senior league in Indiana. With every strike made, Joan would cheerfully exclaim, “Praise the Lord!”
Joan loved playing board games with family, camping and attending gospel hymn-sings with her husband, Alvey. She was frugal and known as the “Coupon Queen.”
Joan was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker, known for decorating a beautiful, warm and inviting home—especially during Christmas. Joan enjoyed attending the Fall annual “Covered Bridge Festival” in Indiana with her daughter Tina and her granddaughters. Alvey often said he had never known two women closer than Joan and their daughter Tina, they were best of friends.
At 88, Joan and Alvey enjoyed the adventure of moving to Kansas to live with their daughter Tina and son-in-law (Pastor) Terry (whom Joan adored like their own son). There, Joan and Alvey shared their remaining years together, side by side.
As Joan’s earthly journey neared the end, Alvey reminded her of the Heavenly joys ahead—meeting her Savior and reuniting with their daughter Teresa. Some of Joan’s last words were for her “sweetie” Alvey to enjoy his favorite lunch, followed by several heartfelt statements of, “I love you” to him and the family. Alvey sat by Joan’s side holding her hand for over 20 hours during her hours of transitioning from this earthly home—a precious testament to their love.
Joan is survived by her beloved husband of 71 years, Alvey Smith; daughter Tina Danford (Terry); six grandchildren: James (Alexis), Sheilah (Russell), Krista (Stevie), HeatherJoy, Joshua (Emma), and Melody; and eight great-grandchildren: Bryant, Rebecca, Evan, Ava, Abigail, Sylvina, Harrison, and Gawayn.
Joan will be remembered as a faithful wife, loving mother, devoted grandma (Nana), great-grandma, a true friend and prayer warrior who loved her LORD. Her wit, joyful spirit, and vibrant presence will be deeply missed.
The visitation will be 1:15 p.m. Thursday August 7, 2025, at Faith Baptist Church, 639 Max Ave., Salina KS. Followed by the funeral service at 1:30 p.m. Faith Baptist Church, 639. Burial will follow at Gypsum Hill Cemetery 2020 E Iron Ave., Salina KS.
After the burial a reception will be had at Faith Baptist Church.