Obituary - Connie Delene Smith

 

Obituary - Connie Delene Smith

Connie Delene Smith, 71, of Independence, Missouri passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 2023. She was born to Harold and Lois Fickle on December 28, 1951 in Independence, Missouri.

At the young age of 16, while attending Truman High School Connie met her best friend and the love of her life Kelley. A few short years later they were married and spent the next 47 years creating memories together. To that union came three sons, Steven, Christopher and Jeffrey. Connie’s kind spirit led her passion for teaching. After graduating from Central Missouri State University, Connie began her career as a preschool teacher. When she became a mother, she was able to stay home and raise her boys. Later on in life she became a first grade teacher at Blackburn elementary school. She taught for 16yrs before retirement in 2013. Connie also loved to travel. She enjoyed many cruises but her favorite destination was Italy. Connie was a thoughtful, caring woman of strong faith. She volunteered much of her time as an elder within the Community of Christ Church and as a co-pastor at the New Walnut Park Congregation. She loved to share her love for the Lord with others and her presence will be greatly missed. Connie is survived by her beloved husband, Kelley; sons, Steven Smith (Denise), Christopher Smith (Elizabeth) and Jeffrey Smith (Kristin); grandchildren, Hailey, Kaitlyn, David, Emily, Michael, James, Logan and Connor; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents. Cremation is planned with a private family gathering at a later date.