WARREN
Evalena R. Smith, 89, Warren, previously from Marion, passed away at 9:24 pm on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. She was born in Columbus, Indiana, on February 28, 1935, to Pliny H. and Annetta B. (Strahl) Poffenberger. On June 17, 1955, she married David J. Smith, and he preceded her in death last year on November 30, 2023.
Evalena graduated from Columbus High School. She was very active in her churches over the years, especially at First Baptist Church in Marion. She enjoyed cooking and baking and will be remembered for her delicious cinnamon rolls, crumb top apple pie, and homemade jams. She was a very social woman and always liked having friends and family over to entertain. Evalena was first and foremost dedicated to her family as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was devoted to caring for her husband of 69 years until his passing, and she was looking forward to their reunion in heaven.
Survivors include her children, Laura (Joe) Beck of Sweetser, Greg (Jerri) Smith of Noblesville, Kathy (late Mike) McCarter of Kokomo, and Mark Smith of Marion; grandchildren, Lindsay (Cory) Harkins, Bethany (Adam) Welch, Jordan Smith, Brieanna Davis, Jennifer Pemberton, and Brittany (Joe) Rector; step-granddaughter, Kristine; step-grandson, Chad McCarter; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; brothers, William R. Wayman and Scott Poffenberger; and sisters, Betty L. Sweeney and Elizabeth Huffman.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral &Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Evalena’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with her son, Greg Smith, officiating. Burial will take place at Gardens of Memory in Marion.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Alzheimer’s Association, 50 E. 91st St., Ste. 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
