Verda “Jeanett” Smith

Verda “Jeanett” Smith, 83, of Holden, Missouri passed away Friday May 26, 2023, at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, Missouri.

Jeanett was born in Warrensburg, Missouri on May 18, 1940, to Lawrence W. Smith and Julia Eva (Shackelford). She was one of ten children born to the couple.

The family lived in Warrensburg until 1941 and then moved to Kingsville, Missouri. Jeanett attended and graduated from Kingsville High School.

After graduation she stayed to live and work on the family farm. A self-proclaimed country girl that had a love of country music and watching westerns on television.

She put her love of those things into writing and her book of poetry titled “Art and Nature” was published in 1983, her most cherished accomplishment.

Jeanett was a smart and sweet lady who spent much of her time learning about nature and animals and used that knowledge to write her poetry.

She lived a somewhat secluded life and many will remember her from working in Holden at Harmony House restaurant, babysitting and the factory on the west side of town. While walking about town she enjoyed stopping by Gimba’s Book Store, in the building where Doctor Wescott’s office used to be, or dropping in at the Second Time Around to visit and browse.

She will be missed, and she will be remembered.

Surviving her passing is her dear friend Stella Smith, of Holden.

Preceding her in death were her parents and several siblings.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on June 5, 2023, at the Holden Cemetery with Pastor Michael Wakeman officiating.

Arrangements entrusted to Campbell-Cast Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Holden Cemetery in her Jeanett’s memory.

Online condolences may be left at www.castfuneralhome.com