Reba "Kay" Smith's Obituary
Reba “Kay” Smith, beloved mother, grandmother, sister-in-law, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on March 18, 1942, in Pittsburg, Kansas to Dorothy and Glen Watson, Kay lived a life marked by love, service, and song.
She grew up in Pittsburg, where she met her soulmate, Dennis Smith. Their love story blossomed into a lifelong partnership filled with laughter, adventure, and shared passions. In the 1970s, Kay and Dennis relocated to Texas, where she enjoyed a successful career at Raytheon, retiring in 2008. Her post-retirement years were spent in Roanoke, close to her daughter and granddaughters—family always being the heart of Kay’s world.
Kay’s warmth and generosity extended far beyond her home. She was an active member of the Women’s Club with E-Systems and Raytheon, and her days were often filled with travel, lunch outings, and sailing with Dennis. Her soprano voice graced the church choir, and she found deep joy in volunteering for Vacation Bible School, Sunday school, Bible study, and Meals on Wheels. Her faith was a guiding light, and many of her closest friendships were formed through her church community.
She was a quiet force of compassion, supporting numerous charities and always finding ways to uplift others. Her legacy is one of kindness, devotion, and a life beautifully lived.
Kay is preceded in death by her husband Dennis who passed in 1993, her parents Dorothy and Glen, and her brother Jerry Watson.
She is survived by her loving daughter Courtney, son-in-law Brian Strength, granddaughters Mackenzie Schreiber and Hannah Strength Rickel, her dear sisters-in-law Kathi Compton and Karen Watson, as well as many nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews.
Her family and friends will forever remember her radiant smile, her generous heart, and the music she brought into their lives.
A celebration of Kay’s life will be held on Friday, August 29th, 2025, at 2pm with Freedom Fellowship Church. 100 Dorman Rd. Roanoke, TX 76262.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Discovery Village in Southlake and the Holy Savior Hospice for their never-ending care and compassion during their time of need.
“Her melody may have quieted, but her harmony lives on in all who knew her.”
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