Barbara May Smith, 90, of Whitehall, passed away Sunday, October 26, 2025. She was born May 16, 1935 in Muskegon, the daughter of Henry and Minnie (Cincush) Steenhagen.
On October 1, 1955, Barbara married the love of her life, Frank A. Smith. He precedes her in death.
Barbara graduated from Muskegon Heights High in 1953. She worked her entire career as an office clerk, including 26 years at Sears, Roebuck & Co. in Muskegon, until retiring in 1996.
Barbara was a devoted member of Lebanon Lutheran Church, in Whitehall, for over 50 years. Over the years, she dedicated her time as a Sunday school teacher and was a former Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader. She enjoyed reading, gardening and camping, especially in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Barbara is survived by: daughter, Pamela Edson; son, Randy Smith; grandchildren, Mackenzie, Adam, Jordan, Zach, Crystal and Brittany; sister, Pat Powlenko; stepbrother, Robert (Margaret) Mowers; brother-in-law, Joe Lakatos; and daughter-in-law, Roki Abakoui.
Barbara was preceded in death by: her husband, Frank A. Smith; son, Gregory L. Smith; grandchild, Kylene; parents, Henry and Minnie Steenhagen; brothers, William, Donald and Ken Steenhagen; sister, Alice Lakatos; and brother-in-law, Fred Powlenko.
A memorial service will be conducted at noon, Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Lebanon Lutheran Church, 1101 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall, MI 49461. A luncheon will follow the service at the church.
Memorial contributions can be made to the White Lake Area Food Pantry via checks made to “Lebanon Lutheran,” memo line: White Lake Food Pantry, 1101 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall, MI 49461.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
www.beaconfh.com
