Brenda Kathleen "Kathy" (Jones) Smith, aged 79, passed away on January 18, 2024. Born on February 22, 1944, in Emporia, Kansas, she was the eldest child of Eileen and DeWayne Jones. Kathy grew up in Emporia, where she was active in gymnastics and social clubs, and graduated from Emporia Senior High School. In 1962, she married Robert Smith, and shortly thereafter they moved to Manhattan, Kansas. There, Kathy worked as a teller at The First National Bank of Manhattan. Before the year was out, Kathy's life was drastically changed following a serious car accident which left her paralyzed. Subsequently, the couple moved to Wichita, Kansas in 1966, where Robert begin working for The Boeing Airplane Company and Kathy opened a new chapter in her life learning to be a home maker from the confines of a wheelchair. As a mother, Kathy raised her two sons, Jeremy Smith and Michael Smith who will always cherish their memories of her. Kathy also made her mark as a citizen, serving as the chairperson of the Architectural Barriers Committee, Kansas Paralysis Chapter, National Paraplegia Foundation — An organization which advocated for accessibility and accommodations for the disabled. After her separation and subsequent divorce from Robert in 1986, Kathy continued to demonstrate resilience and dedication to her family and community.

Kathy is survived by her children: Jeremy Smith; and, Michael Smith and wife, Jessy Cruz Smith; grandchildren: Justin Kennedy and wife Kerry Kennedy; Kelsey Smith; and, Wyatt Smith; and, two great grandchildren, Addilyn Etter and Murphy Kennedy; and, her sister: Gail Williams and husband Gary Williams. Although Kathy's life was filled with events the majority of us will not have to endure, it was also filled with many of the experiences we know and cherish as family members. Above all, her life has been a testament to what can be accomplished with perseverance, regardless of the circumstances you may find yourself in. As we bid her farewell, we do so with gratitude for the time we had with her and the experiences she could share with us.

In accordance with her wishes, Kathy's remains will be cremated, and a private memorial service will be held to honor her life and legacy.