Marie Smithson

    Marie LaVern Smithson 92, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009, in Gilbert. A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, at the Holbrook Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the church. Interment will follow at the Holbrook Cemetery.
   Marie was born in Fowler, Colo., on Jan. 12, 1917. She moved to Holbrook at the age of 4 and she considered herself a native Arizonan. She lived in Holbrook until 2004, when she and her sweetheart, Tom, moved to the Mesa/Gilbert area with their daughters.
   In 1934, she graduated from Holbrook High School wearing a dress that Tom purchased for her with his tip money. In Holbrook, she and Tom built and operated the Cactus cafe for many years until she became the school cafeteria manager.
   She was an active member of the LDS church, and an example of sincere compassion and service. She was a member of the Holbrook Garden Club for many years, and her beautiful yard reflected her love and talents with flowers. She was able to encourage growth from the tiniest of seedlings.
   Marie had a sparkling personality with a delightful sense humor. She was adored by her friends and family, and will be remembered with much love.
   Survivors include two daughters, Kathryn Smithson Neal (Thomas R. Neal) and Marilyn Smithson Larson (Bruce E. Larson); eight grandchildren, Bradley N. Neal (Lillian), Kourtney Kay Neal Hendricks (Jason), Misty Dawn Neal Smart (Joshua), Lisa Marie Larson Halsey (Scott), Nicole Lee Larson Stapley (Derek), Kent Aaron Larson (Carissa), Ryan Bruce Larson (Noel) and Tyler Craig Larson; and 17 great-grandchildren, Conner Brent Neal, Leigh Marie Neal, Thomas Jason Hendricks, Hayden Neal Hendricks, Sammie Jack Hendricks, Colton Joshua Smart, Kallie Rae Smart, Cade Elliot Smart, Khloe LaRae Smart, Bailey Nicole Halsey, Hunter Scott Halsey, Aiden Jacob Halsey, Cody Del Stapley, Lexi Lisa Stapley, Kylee Kate Stapley, Sydney Shae Stapley and Ryder Ryan Larson.
   She was preceded in death by Tom, her lifelong love and husband of 72 years; and grandson Thomas Brent Neal.
   Norvel Owens Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.