Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Fisher Funeral Chapel
Judybeth Smith, aged 87, passed away on a Monday morning, January 22, 2024, in the emergency room of Logansport Memorial Hospital.
Born on January 18, 1937, in Defiance, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of the late Curtis Elbert and Dolores Evangeline (Lahman) Connin.
In her formative years, Judybeth shared an unbreakable bond with her grandmother. Her deep love for her country began to blossom early on, spending countless hours with her grandma at the American Legion. Every Memorial Day, she sold poppies for Disabled Veterans, and on each November 11th, she gracefully twirled her baton in the Veterans Day Parade. At the age of 8, Judybeth started her journey at the USO in Fort Wayne and began going door-to-door selling greeting cards to support veterans.
Her passion for nursing began at the age of 12, when she volunteered at Fort Wayne Methodist Hospital (now Parkview). After graduating from Northside High School in 1955, she pursued further education, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Health Arts from St. Francis College. In 1958, she proudly graduated from the Parkview Methodist School of Nursing, commencing her career as a surgical floor nurse.
On May 23, 1959, in the First United Methodist Church of Fort Wayne, she exchanged vows with the love of her life, Frank G. Smith, who survives her.
Their journey led them to Bloomington, where Judybeth served as an industrial nurse for Sarkes Tarzian, a television tuner manufacturer. Subsequently, they settled in Logansport to raise their family. With the birth of their children, Matt and Renee, Judybeth became a devoted stay-at-home mom, cherishing each precious moment. When her children entered school, she embarked on a career as the Logansport High School nurse, a position she held for 28 fulfilling years, leaving a mark by initiating the LHS Health Careers Club.
Her unwavering faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, guided every aspect of her life. She was actively engaged in Main Street Community Church’s Women’s Fellowship and served as the past president of the Alpha Mu Chapter of Tri Kappa – a philanthropic sorority dedicated to charity, culture, and education. Judybeth was also an enthusiastic gamer. She enjoyed bridge, solving crossword puzzles, and completing jigsaw puzzles, which she generously donated after finishing. She loved to play card games with family and friends, especially her grandchildren.
Her affection for her family and friends was evident. Judybeth had a unique way of expressing her love—whether through heartfelt notes, thoughtful gifts, or the painting of a custom works of art. It was a true honor and joy to be touched by Judybeth’s love. She possessed the extraordinary ability to make you feel uniquely special and cherished. In the warmth of her smile or the singing of a song, you found not just comfort but a sanctuary of safety and love.
Above all, writing held a special place in her heart. It was a true gift from God. With her pen in hand, words flowed effortlessly, culminating in her book, “God Wink,” derived from devotionals she penned for the church newsletter. Judybeth felt blessed that her life’s success was not a result of mere coincidences but rather “God Winks,” affirming she was exactly where He intended her to be.
Surviving her husband, Frank, of 64 years, are her son and daughter-in-law, Matt and Becca Smith, and her daughter and son-in-law, Renee and Kevin Kozlowski. sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Patty and Butch DuSchene; Grandchildren Whitney (Marla) Smith, Zane Smith (friend Gracie Ressett), Michael (Addison) Kozlowski, Katie (Cam) Smith, Andrew Overton (fiancée Richelle Weller), Ashley (Richard) Ortiz, and great-grandchildren Piper and Theo Smith, Rylee Ortiz, and Kruz and Koby Kozlowski also cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Rosso.
A Funeral Service celebrating Judybeth’s life will be held at 12 p.m. noon on Saturday, January 27, in Fisher Funeral Chapel. The North Central Nurse’s Honor Guard will conduct a special ceremony at the beginning, followed by the funeral, with Pastor Doug Thomas officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
Private family graveside services will be held in Mount Hope Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or the American Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Share your cherished memories and offer condolences on Judybeth’s Tribute Wall at www.fisherfuneralchapel.com. In her memory, let’s embrace the “God Winks” that adorned her journey, knowing she is forever in our hearts.