Jean Smith

Jean Marie Smith, Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 22, 2024, two days after her 63rd birthday. Jean was born September 20, 1961, in Topeka the daughter of Carvan G. and Rosalia “Sally” Gudenkauf Smith. She graduated from Assumption Grade School in 1976 and Hayden High School in 1980. Jean loved all sports, including and especially the Kansas City Royals, Dallas Cowboys, Kansas State and Hayden Wildcats. She was a hard worker even with the limitations of her disability. She worked at Long John Silvers in North Topeka from September of 1980 until March of 1983 when she accepted the job of receptionist at Assumption Catholic Church. In that position, Jean handed out thousands of sack lunches to those needing food who rang the bell at the Church office window. Hers was the hand of kindness to all those people. When the Assumption Church office closed in 2013, Jean became the receptionist at Catholic Charities Topeka office until 2017 when she transitioned to Corita’s Corner Sandwich Ministry, continuing to feed those in need. From January of 2020, until her recent illness, Jean was employed by the Pad Restaurant in North Topeka. Along her journey she made many friends and was always happy to share a smile. Jean has joined her parents and brother, Thomas L. Smith, who arrived in Heaven prior to her entrance. Survivors include her brothers, Tim Smith (Liz), Terry Smith (Debbie), and her twin, Jerry Smith (Becky); sister-in-law, Rose Smith; nieces and nephews, Tonya Bolte (Karl), Justin Smith (Amber), Conrad Hudson, Bryan Smith (Kristina), Kayla Jones (Chris), and Jamie Smith (Ashley); and many great-nieces and great-nephews. Visitation will be from 5 until 6:30 p.m. Friday, October 4, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614, where the rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 5, at Assumption Catholic Church Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Capper Foundation and sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Jean Smith

September 20, 1961 - September 22, 2024