Louise was born on October 20, 1926 in Summerville Mo., one of ten children born to Thurman and Stella Smith.
After graduating from high school, Louise joined the U.S. Air Force. Back in civilian life she felt the beginnings of wanderlust as she moved to Washington DC where she got an apartment with three other girls while working at the Pentagon. Louise heard the call to go west and she moved to Long Beach CA where she met her late husband, Samuel (Red). He worked in the Navy dry dock in Long Beach CA and she was the port librarian. They loved square dancing, going around the area for competitions, and traveling in their travel trailer throughout the west. They were also very involved in their church, Gallalee Baptist Church.
After retiring, they moved to Sun City AZ to enjoy life in the sun. Louise was involved in working with the Native American community, bringing much needed items to the children there.
For a short time she moved back to Missouri only to return once more to the Sun City area.
Louise is survived by a brother, Max (Doris) of Long Beach CA, a sister, Virginia Etheridge (Charles) of South Haven, MO, a step daughter, Carol Sheffer and step grandchildren, Erin & Daniel Sheffer of Waterford, NY, and many nieces and nephews.
Louise will be interred at the Sunland Memorial Park with her beloved husband. There will be no ceremony however donations in remembrance of Louise may be made in Louise’s name to Hospice of the West, 21410 N. 19th Ave. Phoenix 85027.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunlandmemorial.com for the Amato family.
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Hospice of the West21410 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85027
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