Obituary of Barbara Jane Smith

Barbara Jane Smith aged 94, died of natural causes at Palm Garden Nursing Center on February 25, 2024, surrounded by her beloved sons. Barbara was born May 5, 1929, in Kokomo, Indiana to her parents Nick and Dorothy Kirkpatrick. She graduated from Kokomo High School. Barbara married Dr. Robert R. Smith and raised a family of 3 boys, Brad, Rick, and Kirk. Dr. Bob practiced chiropractic in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for 6 years then moved the family to Lakeland, Florida in 1956 and then to Winter Haven in 1957. Barbara assisted with the business operations of Smith Chiropractic with Dr. Bob until retiring after 40 years of practice. Both Barbara and Dr. Bob were very active in the ministry of Havendale Baptist Church in Winter Haven. Barbara loved witnessing for her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Backyard Bible Clubs, Child Evangelism Ministries, and her influence affected many children even into adulthood. Her love of music was contagious and her ministry as pianist, choir director and special music was a big part of her life. Barbara was a missionary both locally and internationally to Ecuador, Jamacia, St. Kitts, and Nicaragua where many souls were won to Christ. Barbara was a dedicated mother to her family and a wonderful Christain woman with an uplifting and positive personality. Barbara will always be remembered for her deep abiding love for her Lord and for her cherished family.  

Barbara is preceded in death by her husband Dr. Robert Smith, her sister Peggy Stavropulos Scher, oldest son Brad V. Smith, grandsons Brook P. Smith and Jarrod Smith. Barbara’s remaining family are son Dr. Rick M. Smith (wife Karen), son Kirk P. Smith (wife Tory), Becky Smith (Brad’s wife). She had 6 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.