Dorothea Smokewood

Dorothea Smokewood, 89, of Independence, MO passed away Monday, April 27, 2009 at Centerpoint Medical Center. A visitation will be from 6-8:00 PM Thursday, April 30 at Carson-Speaks Chapel, 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence. Services will be at 1:30 PM Friday, May 1 at the Chapel with burial to follow at Mound Grove Cemetery. The family suggests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.
Dorothea was born December 1, 1919 in Mulberry, KS to Lon and Mamie (Cox) Palmer, the second of five girls. She married Frank Smokewood on Feb. 12, 1940 and together they raised two children. Throughout the years, Dorothy worked at a grade school, drug store, and most recently, Ryan’s Steakhouse. She enjoyed knitting, painting, and reading. Dorothy will be missed for her determination and independent nature by all who knew and loved her.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband Frank Smokewood, parents, and three sisters: Margie Simpson, Helen Shankles, and Madeline Mayfield. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Shirley and Harry Williams and Gary and Kulop Smokewood; three grandchildren: Melissa Turner and husband Jason, Brian Williams, and Emily Ann Smokewood; great-granddaughter Kyley Williams; sister Irma Stumfoll; and a host of extended family and friends.