Eleanore Gay Smith was born November 14, 1937 in Winfield, Kansas and went to her heavenly home peacefully surrounded by loved ones February 3, 2023.

Eleanore was the eldest of four daughters born to Leo & Dorothy Griffin.  Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Ponca City, OK where they lived during her childhood.  She attended and graduated from St. Mary's Catholic School.  She was involved in choir and the cheer team.  Upon graduating high school in 1955, she attended Marymount College in Salina, Kansas where she studied microbiology.

Eleanore met Bill Smith on a blind date, and after a short courtship the two were married in Ponca City, OK in 1958. Eleanore and Bill lived in Ponca City, Oklahoma City, Fort Dodge, IA, and Topeka, KS before making their home in Leedey in 1968.  They enjoyed 59 plus years of marriage until Bill's passing in 2018. They were blessed with three sons, Jeff, Eric, and David.

Upon moving to Leedey, they purchased and operated Smith Grocery and then began Bill Smith Oil Company.  Eleanore worked in the office, helping Bill, while raising the children.  After selling the family business, Eleanore worked at the Leedey Drug Store until she retired.

Eleanore loved to sew. She would make shirts, dresses, pants, or any clothing request that came her way.  Eleanore's love of music was on display every Sunday at the Methodist church where she played piano and sometimes the organ. She also opened her home, giving piano lessons to the children of Leedey.

Eleanore is preceded in death by her husband, Bill Smith, parents Leo and Dorothy Griffin, and her sister Judy Flynt (Griffin).

Eleanore is survived by three sons; Jeff and wife, Tina, Eric and wife, Stephanie, David and wife, Candice; two sisters, Patty Henderson and Linda Chatton; Seven grandchildren along with two great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank our Aunt Patty for all her help and support.  The family would also like to

thank the staff of Traditions Health and Brookdale Senior Living with a special thanks to Cindy, Tabitha, Crystal, Iris & Renee for their true professionalism and love they showed our Mother while in their care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the:

Leedey Fire department

c/o Shaw Funeral Home

PO Box 276

Vici, OK  73654