Elizabeth J. Smith

Elizabeth Johanna Laechelin Smith Joanie blessed us with her presence from September 11, 1945 until February 29th, 2008. Born to Janell Donahue and the late Robert J. Laechelin, Sr. Joanie lived her entire life in San Antonio, graduating from Robert E. Lee High School in 1963. She enjoyed hanging out at the Bun N Barrel with her friends, where she met her husband of 38 years, Gary.

Joanie's formal career was in insurance but she had many informal careers as well. She enjoyed jewelry making, sewing and even sold candles. Joanie loved gathering with her family at their ranch in Tarpley, TX. She was so much too so many people; a wife, mother, daughter, sister, Godmother, aunt, cousin and friend.

She created the "Joanie's Jewels" group to walk in support of the Susan G. Komen foundation's fight against breast cancer. Joanie was loved by so many and our hearts are broken although we know she is in a better place and no longer in pain.

Joanie fought a hard battle with breast cancer and showed us the meaning of bravery. She is a hero to us all. She is survived by her husband Gary; sons, Jeffrey and his significant other, Kristi Dunlap and Ryan; mother, Janell Donahue; sister, Sandy Delashaw and husband Bob; brother, Robert Laechelin, Jr. and wife Amy; numerous, nieces, nephews and cousins and also her three beloved dogs, Amy, Bullet and Bandit.