Joan C. Smith, 88, of Columbus, GA passed away on April 17, 2024. The family will hold private family services in the future. Joan was born on July 10, 1935 in York, Pennsylvania; the daughter of David Lehr and Leona Waughtel Lehr.
Joan felt strongly about volunteering in her community and being involved in her children’s lives. She was a member of the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts of America for over 15 years. She was an active member in her churches, both Assembly of God Lutheran Church and then St. Matthew Lutheran Church; She was a Liturgist, she taught Sunday School, she taught and served with Vacation Bible School, she served as the pianist and organist for both churches, she also sang in the choirs, and was involved with the Lutheran Women Groups. Joan was involved in the PTA at both Eddie Elementary and South Columbus Elementary and was a Room Mother for all five of her children. Some of her hobbies included selling Avon, Tupperware, it seemed like there was always a Tupperware party going on. Joan was a wonderful cook, however she will be remembered as an excellent baker by her friends, clients and family. Joan worked for 30 years as a dental assistant and then began working for Master Kleen Cleaners where she always greeted her customers with warm smiles. Joan also made time for the 211 Columbus Helpline, which she volunteered for, for 14 years. What Joan truly loved was her family, her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and the time they spent together.
Preceded in death by: her parents, David and Leona Lehr; and a grandson, Kenny Toole; son-in-law, Ken Allen.
Survivors include: her children, John E. (Joni) Carroll, Vicki Lynn (Ken) Toole, Joanne (Clyde) Allen Hutto, Wendy Jo (David) Carroll, Sandra Lee (Chuck) Rutherford; grandchildren, John Toole, Patrick (Carrie) Toole, Jason Allen, David Allen, Aimee (Daniel) Allen, Tammi (Bubba) Castle, Lauren (John) Tenery Flynt, Paul Tenery, Daniel O’Donald, Chris O’Donald, Lindsey O’Donald, Krista McCollough, David Fowler, Kristen Rutherford, Afton Rutherford; great grandchildren, Amie, Kylie, Emma, Lorelei, Maddie, Aiden, and Kaleb.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation on Joan’s behalf to The Bill and Olivia Amos Children’s Hospital, https://columbusregional.childrensmiraclenetworkhospitals.org/
