Thelma Jean Smith June 28, 1927 – May 3, 2025

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we honor the life of Thelma Jean Smith, who peacefully passed away at the age of 97. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Thelma lived a life brimming with love, adventure, and dedication to the people and passions that meant the most to her.

Graveside Service: 11:00 a.m., Monday, May 12, 2025 at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Fort Worth, Texas.

A proud graduate of Texas Christian University, she embraced education and personal growth, carrying these values throughout her life. In 1945, she married the love of her life, John Elmo Smith, and together they built a beautiful family that would span five generations. She was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Janice and Liz, a loving grandmother to five, a cherished great-grandmother to eight, and a doting great-great-grandmother to four.

Thelma's heart was rooted in family, flowers, and the beauty of the world around her. An avid gardener, she shared her love of flowers through her work with the Fort Worth Garden Club. As a proud member of the Eastern Star, she formed lifelong friendships and upheld traditions that connected generations. She owned the House of Beauty in Lake Worth for 35 years, dedicating her time and talent to helping others feel their best.

Her adventurous spirit took her across the globe, and she spent years living in Europe, immersing herself in different cultures and collecting memories that enriched her soul. Whether at home or abroad, her love for animals remained constant, and those around her always knew her kindness extended to all creatures.

Thelma spent her later years bravely facing dementia, fighting with unwavering strength and resilience. Even through life's challenges, her 97 years were filled with joy, love, and meaningful moments that left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Era and Willie Scarborough; her dear brother, Billy Scarborough; her cherished daughter, Liz Ross; her devoted husband, John Elmo Smith; and one grandson, Steven Ross. Though they have gone before her, their love remains an unbreakable thread connecting her to those who continue to celebrate her life and legacy.

She is survived by her daughter, Janice and husband, Glenn; four grandchildren, Rob Hafele and partner, Michelle Carter, Kim Montgomery and husband, Bob, John Hafele and wife, Amy, Staci Ross-Taylor and husband, Chris; eight great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

As we say goodbye to Thelma, we hold onto the memories she gifted us—the laughter, the lessons, and the love she shared so freely. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, strength, and a life well lived.

May she rest in peace, forever surrounded by the beauty she so adored.