Elaine Charlotte Martin Smith

Elaine Charlotte Martin Smith, age 95, of Dallas, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025. Born on a farm in Bruning, Nebraska, to John V. Martin and Frieda Ulferts Martin, Elaine carried with her a legacy of strength, faith, and determination. She was preceded in death by her husband, E. Murray Smith; her parents; and her brothers, James Franklin Martin and Roger John Martin.

Elaine graduated from Englewood High School in Englewood, Colorado, and Colorado Women's College. She began her career as a legal secretary—first in Denver for three years, then in the Dallas area for eight. She moved to Dallas in October of 1952 and brought with her intelligence, grace, and a quiet resolve that shaped both her career and her home life.

In her younger years, Elaine traveled extensively — moving from Denver to Dallas, touring the West Coast by train with a friend, and nurturing an adventurous spirit that stayed with her throughout her life. Her travels spanned countless countries and cultures, creating lifelong memories with friends, neighbors, and fellow church members.

She was married to E. Murray Smith for 52 years. Together they raised three children: Rebecca Elaine Everett (Chuck), Stephanie Lynn Cole, and E. Murray Smith II. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Major Cameron Harrison Everett, U.S. Army, Retired; Taylor Elaine Everett; Shelby Elizabeth Everett; and First Lieutenant Coleman Travis Everett, U.S. Army (First Lieutenant Madison Everett, U.S. Army); and by her niece, Christy Martin Lone.

Elaine began each day with a written devotion and faithfully prayed over her personal prayer list. She lived with a servant’s heart, finding quiet ways to care for others throughout her life. Elaine and Murray were married at Christ Lutheran Church in Dallas, where she remained a devoted member for over 70 years. Her volunteer work included making over a hundred quilts for Lutheran World Relief and delivering meals through Meals on Wheels. She had a dry, understated sense of humor that often caught people by surprise and brought laughter in unexpected moments. With a sharp mind and steady resolve, Elaine remained witty, insightful, and lovingly strong into her final years.

Elaine was also an avid sports fan. She spent many seasons cheering on the Dallas Cowboys with her family, proudly holding season tickets at Texas Stadium during their Super Bowl years. In later years, she became a devoted Texas Rangers fan, sharing the joy of their World Series win with those she loved.

She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5pm-7pm at Sparkman Hillcrest Funeral Home in Dallas on Sunday, April 20, 2025. Funeral services on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church on Lovers Lane. Burial will follow at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills..." — Psalm 121

Memorial donations may be made to Lutheran World Relief.