Rosemary “Rosie” Smith, 89, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025 at Hospice House, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on October 3, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri, the oldest of eight children. From an early age, Rosie embraced her role as a leader and nurturer among her siblings.
Rosie married the love of her life, Robert E. Smith, with whom she shared 65 wonderful years of marriage before his passing. She was also preceded in death by her beloved sister, Patricia, with whom she shared the special memory of a double wedding—a joyful reflection of their lifelong closeness.
Rosie is survived by her four children: Karen Baumgartner (David), Kenneth Smith (Lisa), Daniel Smith, and Rita Luallin (Scott). She was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren and a delighted great-grandmother to 15 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
She spent most of her life in Shawnee, Kansas, later moving to Overland Park and eventually to Madison Senior Living, where she continued to share her warmth, humor, and spark with everyone she met.
A longtime Catholic, visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., Monday, November 24, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon will take place immediately following the service. Burial will be at Leavenworth National Cemetery, where she will rest beside her husband.
Rosie will be remembered for her feisty spirit, her unwavering loyalty, and her deep devotion to her family and all those she loved. Her legacy of strength, love, and resilience will continue to shine through the generations she leaves behind.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the following organizations that provided loving care to Rosie during her final days: Sister Servants of Mary, 800 N. 18th Street, Kansas City, KS 66102 or ComForCare Home Care, 688 SE Bayberry Lane, Suite 104, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063.
