Joan Louise Smith of Leavenworth passed away on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

She was born July 25, 1944 at Ft Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas and was the daughter of the late Earnest and Louise Green. Joan attended parochial schools through 6th grade and Leavenworth public school graduating from Leavenworth High School in 1962.

She married Eugene F. Smith in 1965. (He survives at the home.)

They had one daughter Christine Louise. Her family was the love of her life and loved the times they could spend as a family traveling, camping, shopping and game playing.

Joan was employed at the Women's Community Y from 1983 until 2014 when she retired. Prior to that she ran a Child Care Home from 1973 until 1983. Joan was employed at the Ft. Leavenworth Post exchange where she was a department supervisor. She also worked at Herber's Office Supply.

Joan's love of children was portrayed with advocacy and membership in The National and State Association of Early Childhood Educators. She held the offices of President, Treasurer and Membership Chairman in the Leavenworth Association of Early Childhood Educators. She also belonged to the State Board of Directors Of KAEYC. She is a member of St. Casimir where she had belonged to the Alter Society where she held the office of president. She was a Eucharistic Minister.

Joan was an active member of the Girl Scouts for over 10 years serving as troop leader and a member of the Board of Directors of the Santa Fe Trail Council. Joan Belonged to Beta Sigma Phi for over 50 years holding all offices and had been awarded Girl of the Year several times.

Retirement allowed Joan to volunteer at the C.W. Parker Carousel Where she loved the history and atmosphere and another chance to watch children have fun.

Joan loved being outdoors, hiking, camping and traveling. She had traveled in over 45 states and Canada and Mexico. She also loved the time she could spend with children especially her 2 grandchildren.
Joan is preceded in death by her parents and a brother Edward W. Green of Leavenworth. Survivors include her Husband of the home and their daughter Christine Louise Mangels and her husband Don, two grandchildren, Tyler Dean of Tulsa OK with his fiancé Kayleigh, and Emily Louise of Wichita, Kansas, sister-in-law, Deedie Green Thrasher, nephews and cousins.

Memorials may be given to St. Casimir Church, C.W. Parker Carousel Museum, or the Women's Community Y.

Visitation will be held at St. Casimir Church on Friday, May 19, 2023 from 9 to 10 A.M. Rosary will start at 10 to follow the visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Casimir Church on Friday, May 19, 2023 at 11 A.M. Burial will follow at Mount Muncie Cemetery.