Helen Smith

Helen Rogene Rogers Smith, born September 25, 1932, in Ord, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026. She was the daughter of Wilber and Velma (Carson) Rogers.

Helen graduated from Ord High School in 1950 and went on to attend Nebraska Wesleyan University, earning her degree in 1954. During her college years, she was a proud member of Alpha Gamma Delta International Sorority. She later continued her education, earning a Master’s Degree from Central Missouri State College in 1970.

On June 17, 1956, Helen married Wendell Dean Smith, and together they built a life centered on family, education, and community. They were blessed with four sons: Monte Rogers, Lane Alan, Douglas Jay, and Jeffrey Scott.

Helen dedicated much of her life to education. She taught at Lexington High School in Nebraska, Lincoln Public Schools, Knob Noster High School in Missouri, and later at State Fair Community College in Sedalia, Missouri, where she served from 1970 to 2000. She was known as a passionate educator who cared deeply about her students.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Carson Hugh Rogers.

Helen is survived by her four sons: Monte, Lane, Douglas (Kristine), and Jeffrey. She also leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Chelsy (Matt) Davenport, Chandler (Courtney) Smith, Sadie (Bryan) Casillas, Tanner (Whitney) Smith, Slater Smith, Addie Smith, Catherine Smith, Megan Smith, Bailey Smith, and Taylor Smith; as well as great-grandchildren: Boden Davenport, Vinni Davenport, Lainey Davenport, Carson Smith, Cora Smith, and Scout Smith.

Helen will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her commitment to education, and the lasting impact she had on everyone who knew her.

Cremation rites will be accorded by Adams Crematory and arrangements are under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark.