Born October 10, 1935, in Macon, MO, to Emma and Orin Van Sickle, Shirley was one of six children. After moving to Kansas City, MO, she met her lifelong love, Glenn Levi Smith. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three boys. Known for her love of baking, cooking, flower gardens, and commitment to family, she brought joy and love to several generations. Shirley loved fishing with Glenn – an experience she would share with their children and grandchildren, too. She attended Peace Lutheran Church faithfully until her health no longer permitted it.
She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her brothers Loren, Bill (Marie), and Otto (Catherine) Van Sickle; and her sister Betty Enke (Ervin).
She is survived by her brother, Clint Van Sickle (Linda); her three sons, Skip Smith (Carolyn), Steve Smith (Heather), and Gary Smith (Lisa); six grandchildren, Benton Smith (Sarah Sosland), Kristen Allen (Josh), Ryan Smith (Valerie), Lincoln Smith (Kirsten), Chelsey Boxberger, and Lacey McDaniels; 11 great-grandchildren: Austin, Samorn, Kellan, Wynn, Aviva, Madelyn, Emsley, Juliet, Mary, Logan, and Ben; and many nieces and nephews who lovingly called her “Aunt Deanie.”
Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Peace Lutheran Church in Kansas City, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Shirley’s memory be honored through donations to Peace Lutheran Church.
