Daphen B. Smith, of Eastview, began her forever life on November 17, at the age of 87 years, 9 months, and 13 days. Born to Oscar and Exie Davis Smith on February 4, 1930, Daphen grew up in Stantonville with her brother Edward and graduated from Adamsville High School in 1948.
In 1949, Daphen was united in marriage to Winfred (Dook) Smith, and together they raised three children: Lynn, Gloria, and Gary.
An active member of her beloved church, Mt. Vernon Cumberland Presbyterian, Daphen devotedly served from the pew and sang from the choir. It was through the relationships forged within her church family that Daphen faithfully reared her own family.
While caring for her children, Daphen not only worked tirelessly at home but she also worked diligently at Levi Manufacturing, serving this company for 15 years. Upon retiring, her week days were dedicated to caring for her grandchildren while her week-ends were devoted to seeking and selling treasures. Never one to leave a yard sale unvisited, an auction unattended, or a hotdog uncooked, Daphen gave away as much as she took in, and always for the benefit of others.
Never prone to idleness, Daphen filled her days with gardening, canning, and quilting. Much to the delight of those who reaped what she sowed (and sewed), those who visited Daphen’s home rarely left with empty hands, or empty stomachs. She delighted in doing for others, whether it was from her garden, her sewing machine, her quilting loom, or her kitchen.
Daphen, as sister, leaves behind one brother: Edward Smith of Adamsville. Daphen, as Mother, leaves behind three children and their spouses: Lynn Smith and wife Carol of Dyersburg; Gloria Loda and husband Ron of Piperton; Gary Smith and wife Kris of Counce. Daphen, as Nannie, leaves behind six grandchildren: Gina Foust and husband Shaun, Eric Smith and wife Lisa Maxedon Smith, Jill Fowlkes, Tyler Jernigan and companion Stephanie Wilson, Levi Smith, and Eli Smith; and six great-grandchildren: Riley Smith, Braxton Jernigan, Anna Kate Crenshaw, Kole Crenshaw, Josh Fowlkes, and Elizabeth Fowlkes. She also leaves behind a special friend, Linda Hamlin.
Daphen, upon leaving this earth, has been joyously reunited with her parents, her husband, and many friends and relatives who have preceded her in death.
Memorials may be made to Mt. Vernon Cumberland Presbyterian Church.