Terri Ann Smith

Terri was born and raised in Lansing, MI by her parents Robert and Stella Potts. Terri graduated from Waverly high school and went on to obtain her Bachelor’s degree from Northwood University while working and raising a family.

She began her career at Michigan National Bank Operations Center. She went on to become an employee for the State of Michigan where she dedicated herself up until her retirement in August of 2021.

Terri was married to Len Smith for 16 years. During this time, she was nothing short of an amazing stepmom to Len’s 3 boys Jason, Ryan and Paul. Together Len and Terri had a daughter, Paige Marie.

Terri loved being a mom. As her children went on to get married and have grandkids, she thrived and reveled in the deep and profound joy of grandparenthood. She loved her family unconditionally.

In 2016, Terri was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. Her partner Dan Kulka was by her side every step of the way. Terri was a true Warrior and lived majority of the past 6 years in good health. She consistently and repeatedly beat the odds of what her care team told her. Terri was determined and worked tirelessly towards the efforts of cure research for this devastating cancer. Terri was a prominent supporter of the Sky Foundation, a non-profit organization that raised awareness for the early detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

During these last few years Terri took the opportunity to live her life to the fullest, crossing many items off her bucket list. Trips to Mexico, Costa Rica and Arizona to name a few. The most joyous occasions included being present for the wedding of her baby girl Paige to Alex Walls and the birth of her grandson, Hunter Ryan.

Terri loved to create memories with friends and family, often organizing events and taking charge of photos to make sure the moments were captured to perfection. Her genuine love for others was displayed through her ability to remember and recognize what was important to each and every person in her life. She offered the warmest embraces and was everyone’s favorite cheerleader.

If it mattered to you, it mattered to Terri. Her kind nature, selfless heart and loving soul will be greatly missed. Terri is survived by her loving partner Dan Kulka, daughter Paige (Alex) Walls, stepsons Jason (Michelle) Smith, Ryan (Jessie) Smith and Paul Smith. Grandchildren Keagan Smith, Kaden Smith, Drew Smith., Mason Smith, Jacob Smith, Emily Smith and Hunter Walls

A service with light refreshments will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday 9/26/2022 at the VFW 12250 Old U.S. 27 Dewitt, MI 48820. This will be followed by a celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sky Foundation-Team Platten by visiting www.skyfoundationinc.org. We are asking for everyone to wear purple Monday in honor of Terri’s courageous fight.