Joan was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Gerald Phillip Smith; son, Gerald Phillip Smith Jr.; parents Leon and Esther Stedman; sister, Louise Kok; brothers Leon (Bud) Stedman, David Stedman; and son-in-law, Craig Scheele. She will be remembered by her children Carol Scheele, Debra (Dave) Overbeek, Tracy (Jason) Angell; sisters-in-law Carol Stedman and Pat Smith; daughter-in-law, Nora (Smith) Jenkins; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Joan will forever be remembered for her unwavering love, kindness, and generosity by all who came to know her. She was a devoted family woman and always extremely proud of her family. Joan was compassionate, non-judgmental, and accepting of all; she was a truly benevolent soul. Joan will also especially be remembered by her family for her famous apple pies, as well as her seemingly endless supply of oatmeal cookies that she would always have on hand to offer to visiting family and friends. Joan was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed.
A celebration of Joan's life will commence at noon on Saturday, October 17, 2026, hosted by Cook Funeral Home at 2067 84th St. SW Byron Center, MI 49315, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Contributions may be made in honor of Joan to the Alzheimer's Association. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guest book online.
