Joan (Jardine) Smith, age 94, a life-long resident of Porter County and Valparaiso, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2025, at Addison Pointe Health and Rehabilitation Center in Chesterton, Indiana.
She was born on September 21, 1930, to the late Noel Edward and Helen (Ray) Jardine on the family farm in Jackson Township on land settled by her great grandfather in the 1850s. She cherished her memories of growing up there and had lifelong friends from that time. She was also a graduate of the South Bend College of Commerce.
On June 16, 1951, she was married on the lawn of her parent’s home to Richard K. Smith, who preceded her in death on March 24, 2015, after 63 years of marriage. Together, they had three sons. Oldest son Scott R. (Sherri) Smith of Florida preceded her in death on February 10, 2022. Surviving are sons Thomas N. (Mary) Smith of Texas and Bert C. (Nancy) Smith of Oregon. Also surviving are three grandchildren Brian K. (Stephanie) Smith, Erica J. (Kevin) Anderson and Claire P. Smith, along with five great grandchildren, Will, Owen and Ainsley Smith and Aubrey and Eli Anderson. One brother, James R. Jardine, passed away March 29, 1998.
Always Valparaiso High School sports fans, during the years when their sons participated in basketball, football and swimming, the Smiths attended every event and were sorry to have those years end. They traveled extensively to see their scattered family, attend Army Air Force Reunions and in general enjoy seeing all the country. They also enjoyed several cruises and trips to Europe. Joan loved to play bridge and belonged to a number of ladies and couples duplicate clubs. Joan was a devoted wife and mother who considered raising her family as her life’s greatest work. She was admired and loved by her family and many friends.
According to her wishes, there will be no funeral service. A private celebration of life will be held a later date.
