Stella Ann Smith

Stella Ann Smith, 74, of Inola and Morris, Oklahoma, went to be with her Savior on Saturday, February 18, 2023.  She was born on October 20, 1948, in Henryetta, Oklahoma, the only daughter of Dave and Ellen (Baker) Maple.  After the passing of her father at an early age, she was later adopted by her step-father, Jess Johnson, who loved her like his own until his passing when she was just a young girl.  While at a drive-in movie with girlfriends, Stella met Dennis “Ed” Smith.  They were married on January 1, 1966,  and soon made their home outside of Morris where they would live for more than 30 years. Stella enjoyed cooking for her family (especially Navajo bread and chicken dumplings), playing cards, watching tv classics, and spoiling her chihuahuas, Josey and Rosey.  She loved reading and studying the Bible, memorizing scripture (hundreds of verses and several whole chapters), and spending time with friends and family. Stella served faithfully for each church to which she belonged: song-leader, prayer warrior, smile and laughter sharer, and effusive encourager, among other things.  First Baptist Church of Inola, which she supported even when too sick to attend her last years, was so dear to her heart.  She loved deeply – church family, friends, relatives, and especially her children and grandchildren, and she expressed it often. Stella never met a stranger and wouldn't leave a new friend without a “God bless you, honey.” She will be greatly missed by all those whose lives she touched.

She is survived by her children, Eddie and wife Darla Smith, of Inola, Misty and husband Jackie Lynch, of Morris, and daughter-in-law Nancy Smith-McCune of Beggs, grandchildren, Robert and wife Dani Gleghorn, Tanner and husband Filip Swanson, Ellie Smith, Anna Smith, and Sawyer Smith, and great-granddaughter, Sydney Swanson.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis “Ed” Smith, son, Davy Jess Smith, and brother, David Maple.

Funeral service for Stella will be 11:30a.m., Thursday, February 23, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Inola.  Burial will be at Morris Cemetery in Morris, Oklahoma at 3:00p.m.