Zelda Colleen Smith

Zelda was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Myrtle Lee Henderson, and her son, Kristopher Smith.

She is survived by her husband, Keith Smith Sr.; her son, Keith Smith Jr., his wife, Umi, and their son, Ray; and her daughter, Kellie Putnam, her husband, Shawn, and their children, Lily, Violet, Shawn Jr., and Jasmine.

Zelda was born in Lufkin, Texas, on February 26, 1959, and was the youngest of six siblings: Glenda, Madeline, Virginia, Joe, Phyllis, and their children.

Zelda graduated from Lufkin High School and attended Stephen F. Austin University and Nyack College where she earned a B.S. in organizational management, she went on to earn a master’s degree in higher education from the University of Dayton.

Zelda’s passion for teaching grew from her early work in retail management and church administration, eventually leading her to a career in higher education. After earning her master’s degree, she joined the University of Dayton as assistant director in the Office of Learning Resources, where she managed a team that supported student retention programs across the university.

After more than 11 years at the University of Dayton, Zelda medically retired following her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. In her farewell message to her team and colleagues, she wrote, “I feel fortunate to have spent my career with outstanding colleagues, and I am immensely proud of what we achieved together. Year after year, our team delivered—we made a difference! My greatest joy has been watching and supporting each of you as you stretched to give more than anyone could ask. Thank you for always being there for the students and for one another. My UD friends will always have an incredibly special place in my heart.” Zelda cherished her role as an educator and embraced the challenge of helping prepare the next generation.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)

A Celebration of Zelda’s Life will be held on September 19, 2026, at CrossLife Church, 45 W. Broadway St., Oviedo, FL 32765-8382. For more information, please call (407) 365-3484.

As the Spirit leads, please send flowers to the church address above, attention Kara in the Church Office.