Janice “Lee” Smiley, 80, of Shell Knob, Mo. passed away Sunday, February 2, 2025, at St. Luke’s Nursing and Rehabilitation in Carthage, Mo.

She was born March 5, 1944, in Grove, Okla, the daughter of James and Frances (Cumiford) Finney, who preceded her in death.

Also preceding her in death was her husband, Thomas Smiley; one son, Shelby, a brother, Karey and a sister-in-law, Bobbie.

Survivors include three sons, Kenny Smiley of Anamosa, Iowa, Jonathan Durm and his wife Pam of Mabank, Texas and Gary Durm and his wife Gayle of Pierce City, Mo.; one daughter, Tami Hood and spouse Diana Sumners of Carthage, Mo.; one sister-in-law, Pat Ratliff of Shell Knob, Mo.; eight grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

She graduated from Purdy High School in Purdy, Mo. She was a homemaker her entire life.

Before she was married, she drove in demolition derbies, winning two trophies. She traveled with a carnival for about three and a half years. She also trained horses for a time in Ark. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Shell Knob, Mo.

Private services will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.

The family wants to especially thank St. Luke’s Nursing and Rehabilitation and all of the staff for the friendship and care they gave to Lee.

Contributions may be made to Mo. Kidney Program in memory of Lee.