Obit: Jeannie Smith, 64, Ludington.

Jeannie Smith

Jeannie Smith, 64, passed away January 12, 2015 at her Ludington home with her family by her side.

Jeannie was born February 2, 1950 in Ludington, MI. She graduated from Ludington High School in 1968. Jeannie was married to Gary Smith on July 31, 1971.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents Bernard (Bud) and Eugenia (Jean) Gurzynski, Uncle Eugene (Corky) DeShon and Anthony (Uncle Tony) Gurzynski.

Jeannie is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years, Gary Smith; three sons Scott (Denise) Smith, Michael (Sally) Smith and Timothy (Kelli) Smith; four beautiful grandchildren, Caleb, Landon, Gavin and Addyson and her Aunt Margaret DeShon.

One of Jeannie’s greatest joys was her extended daycare family. For over 40 years she loved, molded and cared for each and every child that passed thru her doors, treating them like her own. She had a unique gift of comforting both children and their parents. Jeannie’s Daycare was never a business. The Smith house was a second home for any family that needed it. Jeannie always found a way to make every occasion at the daycare special no matter what the event: birthdays, Easter, Christmas, Valentine’s Day or a summer family picnic. She took great joy in planning and preparing each one.

After retiring in 2013 her love of children brought her back to working at Oaktree Academy. Volunteering was a large part of Jeannie’s life as well. Most recently helping coordinate the Harvest Festival Princess Pageant.

Jeannie was a proud member of Victory Trinity Lutheran Church of Ludington.

The true loves of her life were her four grandchildren. There was never a baseball game or a dance recital that was missed. Nothing meant more to her than being called Grammy.

She loved taking rides with Gary in search of their next adventure.

After a long and courageous battle with cancer she requested to be at home in the loving arms of her family. Her strength, determination and faith made that possible. Though she has moved beyond this world, she will always be a survivor.

Cremation has taken place and the family will receive guest for visitation on Friday, January 16, from 5 to 8 PM at Oak Grove Funeral Home in Ludington. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 17 at 11 AM at Oak Grove Funeral Home with Pastor William Huether officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Victory Trinity Lutheran Church.

Please visit Jeannie’s personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a photo or story. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center.