Virginia Rose Smith

Virginia Rose (Lembo) Smith, affectionately known as Ginny, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 surrounded by her loving family.

A lifelong resident of the Kansas City metro area, she was a proud graduate of Rosedale High School where she served as the editor for her high school newspaper, the Rosedale Independent. She then attended the Kansas City Kansas Junior College, graduating in 1950.

While working at Ray Smith Studebaker, she met the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Smith. They shared 68 years of marriage, during which Ginny devoted herself to caring for Dick and their five children. Ginny volunteered at the Children’s Nursery School at Children’s Mercy, and she actively supported her children's schools. She was a valued member of Blue Hills Country Club, and she attended the Church of the Nativity in Leawood.

Ginny was preceded in death by her husband, Dick; her parents, Michael and Mary Lembo; her sister, Mary Ellen Mealman; and her great-grandson, Finn Miller. Ginny is survived by her five children and their spouses—Mike Smith (Kathleen), Mark Smith (Robin), Phil Smith (Melinda), Susan Vogliardo (Joe), and Barbara Biel (Greg)—her brother-in-law, Everett Mealman, her 13 grandchildren—Jeff (Brooke), Richard, Matt (Lindsey), Stephanie (Ben), Amy (Scott), Brandon (Mary), Kyle, Jennifer, Tiffany (Bill), Katie (Dave), Andrew (Lisa), Alex, and Natalie—and 17 great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Mission Chateau Senior Living and Catholic Community Hospice for their compassionate care, along with the loving caregivers who supported her leading up to her death. Additionally, the family would like to thank Best Regards Bakery for many cherished family lunches, and for the warm friendship shown by their whole team. A private funeral Mass will be held for family only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Name Catholic Church (1001 SW Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66103), or to the Guatemala mission in San Andrés Itzapa through St. Thomas More (11822 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO 64131 Attn: Guatemala Mission).

Ginny will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and community, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire all who knew her.