Carol Barbara Smith

Carol Barbara Smith, 82, passed away on June 17, 2026, in Santa Anna, Texas. She was born on June 6, 1944, in San Angelo, Texas, to Jesse and Ida Smith.

Barbara (as she preferred to be called) was a beloved sister, aunt, and friend whose life was marked by kindness, creativity, and a deep love for others. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Ida Smith; her brothers Jesse “Beaver” Smith, Joe Smith, Ollie Ray “Buddy” Smith; and her sister Joyce Dunn. She is survived by her brother Kenneth Smith, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will continue to cherish her memory.

Barbara devoted much of her life to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She had a servant’s heart and found purpose in helping those in need, offering comfort, care, and compassion throughout her career and beyond.

She was also a gifted and creative artist who loved painting Western scenes. Her appreciation for the American Southwest and Native American culture often came through in her artwork and personal interests. Barbara also had a love for photography and was rarely without her trusted Canon camera, always capturing moments and memories of family and life.

To her nieces and nephews, Barbara was more than an aunt—she was a source of imagination, joy, and encouragement. She had a special way of making childhood adventures come alive, whether helping them become Bo Duke, Superman, Popeye, or an Army soldier. She would fix hair, add “battle scars,” and make sure every detail was just right so the imagination felt real.

Her gifts were always thoughtful, unique, and memorable, often becoming treasured keepsakes. They were not limited to birthdays or Christmas either—many times they would simply arrive out of the blue, unexpected but always appreciated. Her gifts had a way of standing out, often featuring something fun or whimsical, and there is a good chance it involved an animal in some form—whether on a t-shirt, a trinket, or something else entirely. Whatever it was, it was never ordinary, and it was the kind of gift you would not forget.

Barbara was fun-loving, generous, and always willing to help. She had a lifelong love for Western movies, dogs, coffee, and the simple joys of life. She opened her heart to many and was always ready to do something kind for someone else.

Barbara lived in many places throughout her life, including Beeville, Texas; Durango, Colorado; Forest Grove, Oregon; Emory, Texas; and finally Santa Anna, Texas. In each place, she left behind relationships and memories that reflected her generous spirit.

In her later years, Barbara battled dementia, which ultimately took her life. Even through those difficult years, her family continued to cherish the memories of who she had always been—a caring, creative, and loving presence in their lives.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her kindness, creativity, humor, and the joy she brought into the lives of those who knew her.

We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Johnnie Frausto, Amy Anderson, and the entire Solaris Hospice team for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided during Barbara’s final years. Their kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication brought comfort not only to Barbara but also to our family as they walked alongside us through a difficult season. We are deeply thankful for the genuine love, dignity, and respect they showed her each day, and for the countless ways they cared for those who loved her.