Joan Marie Smith 86, of Valparaiso passed away Thursday, October 12, 2023. She was born October 9, 1937, in Gary, IN to Edward & Genevieve (Gispanski) Layne and graduated from Bishop Noll High School in 1955. Joan made her career as a computer operator with the School City of Gary for over 20 years. She was a longtime member of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church where she volunteered often at Café Manna and attended daily mass. Fond memories were made over the years with her family as season ticket holders at White Sox games, cheering on the Chicago Bulls, playing dominoes and cards with family & friends and at Banta Center, vacationing, going to the movies and plays, birdwatching, and attending as many functions for her kids, grandkids & great-nephews as possible.
On August 5, 1972, she married James W. Smith who preceded her in death on August 20, 2006. Survivors include her children, Amy Francis & Michael Krol both of Valparaiso, sister, Barbara Muraco of Portage, grandchildren: Joshua Michael Krol & Hope Sarina Francis, 4 stepchildren, 8 step-grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and many loving nieces & nephews including Rob (Beth) Muraco & Melissa (Mike) Simatovich and great-nephews; Drew, Dane & Drake. She was preceded in death by an infant son, Gregory Krol.
A visitation will be held Saturday, October 21st from 8:30 – 9:30 am at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Center, 1511 LaPorte Ave. Valparaiso with funeral mass beginning at 9:30 am. Memorial donations may be made to Cure IBM Research Fund at Washington University, St. Louis, MO.
GUESTBOOK
So sorry for your loss. We loved Joan, she was always so loving and happy. She was one of the first people we met at St. T's and heck sat in front of at 8am mass!! She always needed her hug from all of my crew, it was always a special treat to see her. Much love and prayers are coming to your from our family, we love you guys and are praying for you. -The McGintys
