Ruth Ann Smith

Ruth Ann Smith, 86, of Lafayette, formerly of Mulberry, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026. Born on August 26, 1939, in Mulberry to Loyal and Mary (Virgin) Troxel, she grew up in her beloved hometown, graduating from Mulberry High School in 1958. She often recalled with fondness her early years riding horses and enjoying the simple pleasures of small-town life.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Ruth Ann was among the first employees of Arni’s Restaurant, where she helped serve the community in its early days. She later worked at Home Hospital in Lafayette, earning the respect of coworkers and patients alike for her strong work ethic and caring nature. She was an active member of the Women of the Moose and deeply valued the lasting friendships she formed through the Moose Lodge.

Above all, family was the center of Ruth Ann’s world. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her Sunday dinners were a beloved tradition, drawing the family together around her table to share good food, laughter, and conversation that created memories they will carry always.

She is survived by her children, Kellie (Craig) Hills, Troy (Kate) Owen, and Brent Smith; her grandchildren, Alan (Jessie) Hills, Jessica Diekman, Mary Hills, Terran Patton, Chase Owen, Macgwyre Owen, and Madison Smith; and her great-grandchildren, Hudson Patton, Harrison Patton, Wesley Avila, Blake Diekman, Emma Diekman, and Kelci Hills. Ruth Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Sandra Goodnight, brother-in-law Bernie Goodnight, and her daughter Kimberly Owen.