Mary Lou Smith, 67, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at home. She was born September 16, 1957 in Topeka, Kansas to parents Alfred D. Grice and Lucy Grice.
Mary graduated from Topeka High School in 1976 and attended K-State. Mary worked at Blue Cross and Blue Shield. She was a member of NOW and volunteered to work on Democrat’s campaigns over the years.
On June 19, 1982, she married Chad E. Smith. He survives at home. She is also survived by sisters, Cara McNair (Joe), Overland Park, KS and Kim Rose, Castle Rock, CO; brothers, Alfred Grice (Edna), Chino, CA and Joseph A. Breitenstein, Overland Park, KS; numerous nieces, great-nieces, and great-great nieces; and numerous nephews and great-nephews.
Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 9, 2025 at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Topeka, Kansas.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lawrence Humane Society or Visiting Nurses of Douglas County.
I am so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. We were such good friends in Junior High and spent many nightz at each other’s houses. Her family, the Britensteins, eventually became my parents neighbor on 30th street. My thoughts and prayers to her family.
To Chad, the Grice and Smith extended family. My deepest sympathy to you all. Mary was such a Beautiful,(inside and out,) Courageous, Intelligent, Strong, Compassionate, Loving, Faithful
and Faith- Filled, Energetic, Passionate women. She followed her values and beliefs. Mary will be deeply missed. Keeping you All in my Prayers.
Extending my prayers and sympathy to the Smith Family. Mary and I were classmates, THS76
Chad, we all feel for you and for this loss. You were such a steadfast and loving partner to Mary throughout her life & illness, and your strength and unwavering support were a testament to the love you shared.
Mary will be dearly missed, but her legacy for teaching us compassion, and grace will never be forgotten.
Our thoughts are with you and if there is anything we can do to support you & your healing, please let us know.
Chad, sending our most sincere condolences your way. Sorry for your huge loss. Savor all the precious memories you have from years past and I’m sure you have a bunch.
Chad I’m so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. I remember you’d talk about her occasionally when we worked together on the railroad. She seemed like a beautiful soul. Keeping you in my prayers brother.