Winnie Hatcher Smith

Winnie was a gifted student who developed a lifelong love of both mathematics and literature. She graduated from Bethel College with a degree in mathematics and later earned her master’s degree in mathematics from Florida State University.

In 1954, she began working with the aerodynamics group at North American Rockwell in Columbus, Ohio where she built an impressive career as a computer programmer. It was there that she met her future husband, Kirsey Oliver Smith. The two married in 1955 and built a life centered on faith, family, and service.

Winnie was a devoted member of Calvary Bible Church in Columbus, Ohio where her faith and fellowship were an important part of her life. She was also a talented artist who found a number of ways to express her creativity, from knitting and weaving to beading, lapidary, and china painting.

In 1989 Winnie and her husband moved back to Tennessee where they were often in the company of close friends and family. For many years they spent their winters in Sanibel, Florida, a second home that brought them much joy.

Winnie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished time with her family. She is survived by her children: Julia and Glen Farris, Wayne and Catherine Smith, and Audrey and Gary Thunell. She also leaves behind six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of love, curiosity, creativity, and dedication.

A burial service will take place at McEwen Cemetery in McEwen, Tennessee on Monday, March 16.