Delores May Smith

"Dodie" was an open-handed, loving woman who gave lavishly to family, friends, and even perfect strangers in need. From within her kind soul also came Dodie's special love for animals and her dogs that she cared for and spoiled with enthusiastic joy. But most of all, she loved and devoted herself to her adoring family from a deep reservoir of generosity of heart that never ended. Beginning on June 26,2013, Dodie lived with her sister Velma in Elk Grove, Ca where she died in her sleep at 6:05PM on Oct. 28 after spending months of battling the long-time effects of cancer. In her last months, Dodie was able to visit with many members of her family as well as dear friends before she went on to heaven to be with her Savior Jesus Christ, her husband Bob, her parents, and all her loved ones all waiting there for her. Dodie was born in May of 1937 to Margaret and Ray Wherry in Greenville, Ca. When she was 18 years old, Dodie was adopted by her stepfather, C.O.(Speed) Allen. She had three sisters, Jeannette, Patsy, and Velma. After graduating from Greenville High in 1955, she went on to college in Sacramento, Ca. She later met and married Bob Smith, and together they had one daughter, Deborah. Dodie and Bob moved to So. Lake Tahoe in 1968 where she worked for the Nevada State Employment Development. Her job eventually took her on to Carson City where she served as office manager for many years. Though her career was long and lustrous, Dodie's claim to fame with her family was her brilliant cooking, entertaining, holiday celebrations, and lavish gifts. Dodie was Mrs. Santa Clause all year long! And her table was always bountifully laid with delicious foods, and her cupboards filled with treats (for the kids AND the dogs!). Dodie is preceded in death by her husband Bob, her parents, and her sisters, Jeannette and Patsy. She is remembered and mourned by many friends and family including her sister Velma; daughter- Deborah with husband Scott; two granddaughters- Lindsey with husband Brian, and Danyel with husband Marcus and their children, Anika & Ryan; along with many nieces and nephews who adored her and mourn her passing as well. A Personal Note From Dodie's Daughter: I want to extend my profound gratitude and thanks to my family. Especially to my Aunt Velma and my wonderful cousin, Kristin for all their tireless and sacrificial care and love for my mother during this time. To my Auntie, who made her home my mother's home, I will always be grateful. Thank you so much, Auntie. And to my cuzzy Kristin, you were my arms and legs, and a great comfort to me throughout this dark and sad season with my mom. You are a bright star who shined your care, love, and humor upon us all. Thank you, my darling. And I want to thank my cousin Glenny for standing with us as well. The "night watch" was made easier because of you, honey. Thank you so, so much. And I'd like to thank my dear cousin Mary as well. You were such a support! Thank you, dear one. I love you all, and I thank God for you all. Please join us in So. Lake Tahoe for a memorial service and reception on Friday, Nov. 8th at 3:00pm at Lake Tahoe Christian Fellowship at 3580 Blackwood Road.