Irene Nellie Smith

COVID-19 UPDATE: With the recent guidelines limiting the number of people to less than 10 at any gathering, we are asking that you consider other ways to help support family and friends during this difficult time as an alternative to attending a visitation or funeral. Age 97, of Clio, died Thursday, August 27, 2020, surrounded by her family. A funeral service will take place at 1:00 pm on Monday, August 31, 2020, at First Baptist Church of Mt. Morris. Pastor Kevin Dixon will officiate with burial to follow at Sunset Hills Cemetery. Irene’s family will receive friends at church from 10:30 am until the time of service. Memorial donations may be directed to First Baptist Church in Mt. Morris. Expressions of sympathy may be shared on Irene’s tribute page at martinfuneralhome.com. Irene was born in Flint, Michigan, on March 26, 1923, the daughter of Horace and Lola (Waltmire) Kurtz. Raised and educated in Mt. Morris, Irene graduated from Mt. Morris High School with the Class of 1941. She would continue her education at Hurley School of Nursing, graduating in 1946 as a Registered Nurse. Irene would meet Wilson Roy Smith. The two dated, fell in love and were united in marriage. Sadly, he predeceased her on May 14, 1977. Irene dedicated her life to the nursing profession, working as a Registered Nurse for Hurley Medical Center for 19 years before retiring in 1985. She would continue as a private duty nurse for many years after retirement. Irene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. She was an active and devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Mt. Morris, volunteering in many capacities. In her free time, Irene enjoyed gardening and genealogy. Irene leaves to cherish her memory, her children: Dennis and wife, Dawn Smith, Nancy Hoffman, and Barbara Williams; daughter-in-law, Debbie Smith; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren; sister, Joyce Walters; dear friend, Mabel Starkey; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wilson Smith; son, Jerry Smith; son-in-law, Eric Hoffman; and sister: Ruth Kurtz