Fay Ellen Smith

Fay was born in Lyford, Texas to Jack and Eva Dalton. From the beginning, she was full of life and undeniably strong willed – two qualities that benefited her as she served in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1954. In 1970, at the age of 35, Fay attended technical school and became a certified medical assistant. She enjoyed a long career in medicine where she eventually became an insurance clerk until 2010 when she retired.

While there are many things Fay will be remembered for, her fierce loyalty to and love for her family will be one of her greatest legacies. Not only did she support her two children, Candice and Richard, in every way imaginable, she quickly took to the title “Nana” when her grandchildren were born. Of all the titles she held, “Nana” was certainly her favorite and exactly who she was to so many who met her. Without fail, she attended everything from birthdays to little league games; but more importantly, she was there for all the little things like her daily phone calls and lunch dates at the drop of a hat. Among the millions of other little things that she will be remembered for are her fervor for life, contagious laugh, love of fun, giving spirit, and trusting nature.

Fay was preceded in death by her mother, Eva Paulson, father, Jack Dalton, stepfather, Ole Paulson, husband, Lewis Smith, and son, Richard Smith. She is survived by her daughter Candice McHenry, and her grandchildren, Joel and Sarah Beecham.