Verna Smith Obituary

Verna (Debea) Smith

Verna Dubea Smith, 84, passed away thursday, February 26, 2026, in Findlay, surrounded by family and friends. She was a devoted Wife, beloved Mother, and cherished Friend.

Verna was born in Marksville, Louisiana, August 6, 1941, to Jerome and Eunice Dubea. She graduated from Marksville High School in 1959. Verna loved to go dancing at the Pelican Club, where she met and fell in love with a young airman, Ray E. Smith. They were married February 6, 1960. During their 59 years of marriage, they were stationed several times and had three children, Ray Smith Jr. in Roswell, New Mexico; Pamela Smith in Alexandria, Louisiana; and Gary Smith in Okinawa, Japan. In 1967, Ray was stationed at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona, where they lived for over 50 years. She sometimes raised their children on her own when Ray would have a temporary duty assignment for up to a year at a time. Verna was a member of the school PTA, a driver for Girl Scout trips, a homeroom mom, taking her kids to see Disney movies at the Base theater, and so much more. After she and Ray became empty nesters, Verna became a "demo lady" (giving food samples), working at grocery stores for almost 20 years. Verna also worked as a volunteer at a nearby voting poll, doing various duties. She was proud of her part in the voting process and was passionate about voting in every election.

Verna loved getting together with friends for Saturday night dinners, playing games, or just sitting around talking. She and Ray traveled extensively around the country in their motorhome. A couple of memorable trips were driving around Alaska and taking in the fall colors in New England. In 2021, Verna moved to Ohio due to health concerns to be with her daughter, Pamela. She eventually moved into a senior living community, Brookdale in Findlay. Verna blossomed in this community through arts and crafts, musical events, and day trips around Ohio, becoming a Welcome Ambassador (proudly wearing a name badge), and most importantly, making friends with the residents and staff. Verna was a devout Catholic, praying her rosary every evening and going to Sunday Mass was important to her.

Verna is predeceased by her husband, Ray E. Smith Sr.; brothers, Ross Dubea and Jerome Dubea Jr.; and her sister-in-law, Lilly Dubea (who she considered her sister).

Surviving Verna are her children, Ray E. Smith Jr., son; Pamela Fields, daughter and her husband, Darin Fields; Gary Smith, son and his wife, Janet Smith; grandchildren, Elise Fields, Nicholas Fields, and Arielle Smith.

Her final resting place will be with her husband at the Marana Veterans Cemetery, Arizona, at a date to be determined. An intimate service will be held at that time.

In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting donations to Boys Town, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a charity of your choice, or a Catholic Mass in her honor.

One of her favorite Cajun sayings was, "C'est tu bon" (It's all good).

Online condolences may be expressed at www.coldrencrates.com. COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME, Findlay, is assisting family with arrangements.

Verna, Let the Good Times Roll!