Jeanette "Buddy" Loretta Smith

Jeanette "Buddy" Smith was born on Aug. 5, 1933 in Great Falls, Montana. She lived a courageous life devoted to God, family and friends before succumbing to lung disease and congestive heart failure. The Lord took her home on May 29, 2018 when she passed away at Peace Hospice House. She attended school and lived her entire life in Great Falls. Jeanette graduated from Great Falls High School in 1952. The summer after graduating, she met Russell Smith and they married on Jan. 24 1953. They spent 37 years together and raised three daughters. Russell passed away in 1990. Jeanette's three girls were the light of her life. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren also filled her with joy. She was known as Nana Buddy not only to her family, but to many of the children who passed through Buddy's Daycare, which ran for 10 years. After the death of her husband, she went to work at the courthouse, retiring after 6 years. She spent many years working at the Flower Farm, greeting customers with a smile, and thanking them kindly when they left. Jeanette volunteered at Benefis Hospital until her health failed. Traveling, gardening, baking and watching the children who filled her life were her favorite activities. She was an active member of her church with her faith being a cornerstone in her life. Family meant the world to her, and she never forgot a birthday, anniversary or holiday. If she couldn't be present for the day she always sent a card with the words, "Treat yourself." Jeanette's life was defined by her faith in God, and service to others. She is survived by her three daughters, Debbie (Gary Petrini), Sue (Doug Stevens), and Kathy (Dave Axtman); 7 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; brothers Cle and Don; and sisters Donnie and Shirley. A celebration of her life will be held Aug. 4, 2018 at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel at 10:00 a.m. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Jeanette "Buddy" Smith will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She rests at peace with God, and watches over us as a guardian angel reminding us through her example that to "Love each other as I have loved you." (John 15:12) is what really matters. If you would like to donate in her name please do so to Peace Hospice House.