Darlene Smith Obituary

Darlene Smith, affectionately known as Dee, passed away on July 11, 2025, at Advent Health in Killeen, Texas. Born on January 13, 1937, she led a life marked by compassion, dedication, and a commitment to serving others. A memorial service will be held on July 24, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Copperas Cove, Texas, beginning at 11:00 AM, followed by an interment ceremony at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas, at 1:00 PM.

Dee began her nursing career in 1958 as a staff nurse on the medical infectious unit at St. John's Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, where she quickly assumed head nurse responsibilities. Her commitment to excellence led her to serve in the Army Nurse Corps from 1961 to 1967, where she had the honor of teaching 91.C (LVN) students in the operating room. During a significant portion of her military career, she served as the supervisor of the operating room at the 11th Evacuation Hospital in Pusan, Korea, for 13 months, earning the respect and gratitude of many for her dedication.

Dee's educational accomplishments reflect her unwavering dedication to her profession. She earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from St. Louis University in 1962 and a master's degree in counseling psychology from American Technological University in Killeen, Texas, in 1984.

Following her military service, Dee continued to make a profound impact on her community. From 1981 to 1991, she served as a school nurse for the Copperas Cove Independent School District, providing care for over 2,000 students. Her leadership skills were further demonstrated when she became the Director of Nursing at Wind Crest Nursing Center in Copperas Cove, Texas, from 1991 to 1993. Dee's exemplary career also included roles as a staff nurse at Primus Clinic and later working with Tricare and Humana until her retirement.

Beyond her professional life, Dee was a warm and nurturing soul known for her gentle spirit. Her resilience and strength enabled her to face challenges with grace. She was a source of guidance and wisdom to her family, imparting her stories and advice to her children and grandchildren, leaving behind an enduring legacy. Dee's quick wit and infectious laugh brought joy and light to every room she entered.

A devoted member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Copperas Cove, Texas, Dee dedicated her time to the Ladies Society and volunteered at "My Brother’s House" - St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, assisting those in need within her local community.

In her leisure time, Dee pursued various hobbies, which included reading extensively, particularly spending hours Barnes and Noble with her extensive list of books, engaging in needlepoint, cross-stitch, and embroidery, as well as solving crossword puzzles and word finds. She cherished spending time with her family and creating lifelong memories with them.

Dee is survived by her daughter, Mary Jo Smith, and her grandchildren, Zachary Smith, Alannah Smith, and Austin Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Smith, and her son, Jason Smith.

Dee's legacy will undoubtedly live on through her family and all those she touched throughout her life, embodying the virtues of kindness, compassion, and unwavering faith.