Obituary of Donna Smith

Donna Jean Smith was born in Monroe on September 27, 1938. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and the late Arletta (Duvall) Volpi. Donna attended St. Joseph School. On October 17, 1952, she married the love of her life, Robert "R.J." Smith in Monroe. From their union would come the birth of eight children. Throughout the years, Donna worked for several local employers including Howard Johnson's, Ford Motor, and J.C. Penny. Her true passion, however, was that of homemaker to her husband and children. Donna had a love for cooking, and it was a good thing since she had so many mouths to feed, the family always raved over her Chicken and Dumplings and Macaroni Salad, and she had the gift for preparing Italian and Southern foods. Donna loved to play bingo and visit the local casinos. More than anything she enjoyed spending time with her loved ones and attending family and church functions. She was also very fond of her baby, Chihuahua, Chico. Donna Jean Smith, age 74 of Monroe passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at her home under the care of Mercy Memorial Hospice. In addition to her parents, Donna's passing was preceded by husband: "R.J."; children: Betty Winkelman and Robert Smith Jr.; grandsons: Steven Ridner, Justin U'ran, and Jacob U'ran; and niece: Rhonda Volpi. To cherish her memory she leaves sons: James "Bo"(Peggy) Smith and Roy Smith both of Monroe; daughters: Bobbie (Rick) Soleau of Franklin, NC, Arletta "Kay" U'ran of Monroe, Donna (Richard) Fussell of MacClenny, FL, and Tina (Earl) Standifer of Monroe; a granddaughter whom she raised: Tiffany Paolino (Brian Mullendore) of Monroe; sisters: Linda Rodgers of Lake City, Florida, Connie (ML) Eads of Rose City, Della (Dan) Vancise of Orlando, Florida, and Marlene (Glen) Cole of Hot Springs, Arkansas; brothers: Bob (Beverly) Volpi, Joe (Helen) Volpi both of Monroe; seventeen grandchildren; and thirteen great grandchildren. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm on Thursday, May 2 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe (734) 384-5185. Friends may gather from 11:00am until a Celebration of Her Life at 12:00pm on Friday, May 3, 2013 also at Merkle's. Reverend John Bullard pastor of True Gospel Missionary Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorials suggested to Cancer Connection. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.