Obituary: Laverne Smith (nee Hancock)

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Laverne Smith

(nee Hancock)

Laverne Smith, of Joliet, Illinois, and formerly of Harrisburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on June 30, 1940, in Harrisburg, Illinois, Laverne was the beloved daughter of the late Ethel and Arvel Hancock. She was raised and educated in Harrisburg, where she developed the strong values of faith, hard work, and compassion that would guide her throughout her life.

Laverne was a devoted homemaker whose greatest joy was caring for her family. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her home as she dedicated many years to caring for others. She worked as a caregiver at an adult day care center, providing kindness and companionship to those in need. Later in her career, she was employed for many years as a cashier at Certified Grocery Store, where she enjoyed visiting with customers and making lasting friendships.

A faithful member of Zion Baptist Church in Joliet for many years, Laverne's faith was an important part of her life and a source of strength for her and those around her.

In her free time, Laverne found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed quilting, reading, and tending to her beautiful flower garden. Above all else, she cherished her family. Whether sharing stories, offering encouragement, or simply spending time together, she created a home filled with love, warmth, and lasting memories.

Laverne is survived by her children, Rick (George Gaspar) Smith and Rhonda (Randy) Baker; grandchildren, Karen (Jay) Rivera, Greg (Samantha) Smith, Jill (Pro) Winters, Melissa Blenck, Michael Brown, Michelle (Scott) Linn, Micquette (Jeremy Daniel) Brown, Skyla Smith, Chad (Erika) Smith, and Miranda Miller; step-grandson, Bill (Alana) Baker; and thirty great-grandchildren.Also surviving are many nieces and nephews, including Judy (Jack) Carver, whom Laverne helped raise.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Glendell Smith; sons, Kevin Smith and Keith Smith; two grandchildren, Tyler and Amanda Smith; as well as her siblings.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff of Lightways Hospice for the compassionate and exceptional care they provided to Laverne and the entire family.

Visitation for Laverne Smith will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 12:00 p.m.Interment will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made in her name can be made to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431.

For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.

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