Sarah Smith

Sarah Ann (Hall) Smith, born nine years after her older brother, had no choice but to become the much-adored princess in the family. Her cheerful demeanor and quick wit delighted everyone around her. She excelled in sports and studies, was a talented artist, played the piano, and developed an enviable green thumb. She attended business school In Memphis, TN, then married her high school sweetheart, Lawrence Smith, at the tender age of eighteen. Ann immediately embarked on a twenty-year military adventure. Lawrence and Ann traveled all over the world with the U.S. Air Force, and retired in Sherwood, AR.

Ann was known for a ready smile, quick wit, and amazing, light blue eyes which usually held a hint of mischief. She was the first to reach out to those who had experienced loss or needed help. She was an active participant at First Baptist Church's Sunday School class in Sherwood. She spent several years volunteering at the Sherwood Senior Center in the computer class and often commented on the wonderful relationships she developed as a result. Her home was always open to friends and family, and she always had a steaming pot of Starbucks French Roast coffee, taco soup or her secret recipe oatmeal cookies ready. She loved to take her visitors in the backyard to point out blooming roses, lilies, azaleas, various herbs, forsythia, and more. Ann had the special talent to grow just about anything!

Ann is survived by two children and their spouses: Kerry LeAnn Peresta and husband, Jim Peresta of Reisterstown, MD; Lawrence Gregory Smith and wife, Jamie (Jones) Smith of Sonoita, AZ. She spent many happy hours heaping affection on her grandchildren Bonnie Miller and Andrew Lowery of Frederica, DE; Jacob Smith of Hinesville, GA, Josiah Williams, of Lemoore, CA; Erin Lowery of Owings Mills, MD. Ann had five great-grandchildren: Natalia, Nicky, Sophia, Micah, and Gabriel. She never failed to remember a single birthday or send a gift, and the kids always looked forward to her early morning singing of "Happy Birthday to you," each year.

Ann died in her sleep Sunday, June 1, 2014 at Prestige Assisted Living in Sierra Vista, AZ.

Funeral will be held at Huson Funeral Home in Sherwood at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2014 with a time of visitation from 6:00 p.m. until the service time at 7:00 p.m. Burial to follow with a Graveside Service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2014 where friends and family are welcome at in New Salem Cemetery, Couch, MO, beside husband and family.

She is finally at peace. Mom, we'll see you in Heaven! We love you, and will always miss you.