Lisa Anne Smith

April 19, 1962 ~
May 7, 2022

Lisa Anne Smith, age 60, of Grand Rapids, passed away the morning of May 7, 2022 at Mercy Health St. Mary’s Hospital. Lisa is survived by her husband of 34 years, Bryan Smith; children, Rachel Thaler, Dr. David Smith, Caitlin Marlowe; grandson, Theodore Marlowe. Lisa and Bryan lived in Byron Center where they raised their three children and many, many pets. Lisa found joy in many things. Gardening was her therapy, which one would know after seeing the beautiful roses and other plants in the yard that she so carefully grew. Her creativity shines through paintings throughout her house and her unique personality which brought joy to all who knew her. As her family has said a million times, “Mom is always right.” Lisa was skilled with technology and worked for many years as an administrative assistant. She spent years teaching children’s church and volunteered by passing out meals in Grand Rapids. Lisa is remembered and sorely missed for her vitality, fabulous style and makeup skills, humor, empathy, and so much more. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 14 at Gaines Church, 1612 92nd St SE, Caledonia. Burial at Chapel Hill Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday, May 12 from 4-7 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, and from 10-10:45 a.m. at the church before the service on Saturday. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan. Condolences may be sent online at www.mkdfuneralhome.com.

Visitation
Thursday, May 12
4:00pm - 7:00pm

MKD - Kentwood
4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE
Kentwood, MI 49508

Phone: (616) 455-1535

Visitation
Saturday, May 14
10:00am - 10:45am

Gains Church
1612 92nd Street SE
Caledonia, MI 49316

Memorial Service
Saturday, May 14
11:00am

Gains Church
1612 92nd Street SE
Caledonia, MI 49316

Leave Your Tribute Message

May 22, 2022 2:33pm
I've been out of town and upon my return, was shocked and saddened to hear of Lisa's passing. She was such a wonderful woman and delight to work with. My sincerest condolences to the entire family. I hope the memories bring comfort.

- Kim Aasa

May 16, 2022 10:01pm
I was blessed in knowing Lisa back in the late 90s, early 2000s through our mutual love of the Jersey Wooly rabbit. In addition to competing on the show table, we worked closely on the breed club's board of directors for many years and I have always been so grateful for the intellect and humor she brought to the table. We spent many nights on the phone and in person solving problems and enjoying many laughs. I pray the memories of her love of life and family sustain you through this difficult time. God bless.

- Rose-Marie "Bunnie" Turley

May 16, 2022 1:26pm
I am so shocked and saddened that Lisa passed away. I worked with her for several years at WMU-Cooley and couldn't have loved her as a co-worker more. She was funny, enthusiastic and willing to learn new computer programs, and just an all around great person. I came to her funeral and was moved by what people said about her, especially her son David's eulogy. It is obvious that Lisa touched many lives and will be sorely missed. My condolences to the family.

- Michael Molitor

May 15, 2022 11:56am
Lisa was so special in a wonderful way. She assisted me with tech issues at Cooley, always doing so graciously and completely. Since I am lousy at tech, I admired her skill, and the way she was able to explain things to someone like me so that I understood. She was way beyond a fellow employee - she loved to help others with the skills she had. I was looking forward to working with her again this summer, and am so sorry for your loss and the loss to others who loved working with her. I could tell from our many conversations that she was a wonderful person in many other ways, too. My thoughts are with her family.

- Sherry Batzer

May 12, 2022 2:25pm
Sending wishes for good memories, love, and lots of healing to Rachel, David, Caitlin, and the rest of Lisa's loved ones.

- Carly, Corey, and kids

May 11, 2022 4:19pm
I am heartbroken that Lisa has passed away. Lisa was my administrative assistant at WMU Cooley Law for many years. She was truly a wonder in so many ways. She was always a cheerful presence at the office, even on days that most wouldn't have been. Lisa couldn't have been more helpful when we had to navigate the move to online teaching. I'm quite sure that I couldn't have done it without her. Condolences to you, Bryan, and the children.

- Paul Sorensen

May 11, 2022 1:57pm
Bryan, words cannot describe the my feelings. I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Lisa. Sorry I cannot attend for I am in Arizona, but please know you are in my prayers. God bless you and your family. Dale and Norma Peplinski

- Dale Peplinski

May 09, 2022 4:45pm
I hope you are surrounded by all the animals, family and friends you loved and lost. No more getting lost in the woods on horseback at dark for us. You are forever found and in the light now. Brian, You had a wonderful treasure in Lisa. If you would like help figuring out what to do with the horses, let me know. .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

- SandraZukowski




Order flowers for Lisa's service.

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

White Wonder

Thinking of You Basket

Tender Touch

Stargazer Garden

Stargazer Easel Spray

Sincere Sympathy Garden

Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

Remembrance Easel Spray

Natures Glory

Loving Embrace

Gerbera Greetings

Colorful Memories Wreath

Classic Sympathy

Blooming Duo

Bells of Beauty

Beautiful Memories

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.

 

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