Lauren M Smith

Lauren was born in Chicago, IL on July 12, 1963, to Mary Susan Schmitt Houston and the late William Quintel Smith. Lauren spent her formative years in California and would go on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, a Master of Jurisprudence in Labor and Employment Law from Tulane University and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Capella University.

Lauren became a highly accomplished human resources executive with extensive experience in employee and labor relations, strategic HR management and organizational development. She also held certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and SHRM-SCP and authored several publications on HR related topics. Lauren was also recognized in 2021 as one of the Most Powerful & Influential Women at the Illinois Diversity and Leadership Conference.

During her early years, Lauren developed her love of travel, having visited many European countries before the age of 24. Those travels had a lasting impression on Lauren – influencing her empathetic nature and driving her to have a career that focused on helping others. Further inspired by art and music from around the world, Lauren took up painting and honed her creativity by painting on canvas.

Deeply connected to her family, Lauren’s main focus was her son Garrett and his new wife Vanessa. Referred to as Auntie Lo among the family, she had a unique way with the youngsters, creating extraordinary relationships with her nieces and nephews. Always up for a card game or a karaoke session, Lauren’s free spirit would light up the room.

Lauren is survived by her son Garrett and wife Vanessa, her mother Mary Susan Houston and her siblings Leslie, Lonnie and husband Scott, Heather, Virgina, Stephanie, brother David and wife Christina and her beloved nieces and nephews. Lauen was preceded in death by her father William Q. Smith, stepfather George W. Houston and sister Renee.

West Cermak Road, Forest Park, IL 60130.