Marlene Kay Smith, 79, of Farlington, KS, passed away at her residence on June 15, 2025.
Marlene was born on Aug. 21, 1945, in Council Grove, KS, to Norman H. and Ina (Fuqua) Diedrich. She was a graduate of Council Grove High School.
Marlene was a waitress at Bob’s Grill for many years and later worked for Apple Market and then retired from Greenbush.
On Aug. 31, 1963, she married Kevin S. Smith in Council Grove.
Marlene had a deep love for her community and gave generously of her time and talents. She was active in community service projects at Crawford State Park, and was especially passionate about fundraising efforts for The Butterfly Garden and Aggie’s Dream Storm Shelter at the lake. Marlene was a proud member of The Friends of the Crawford State Park and St. Michael’s Catholic Church.
She is survived by her husband, Kevin Smith of the home; three daughters, Regina Jameson (Steve) of Columbus, KS, Starla Parsons (Mike) of Pittsburg, KS, and Dawn Haase (Kurt) of Oronogo, MO, two sisters, Sandy Schaper of Junction City, KS, and Brenda Picolet (Charley) of Dwight, KS, brother, Joedy Diedrich, 13 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her granddaughter, Casey Stohs.
A memorial service followed by a visitation will be held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Girard, KS on June 28 at 10 a.m. A private family burial will be held.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be mailed to The Friends of Crawford State Park. These may be mailed or dropped off at the funeral home, 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762.
Arrangements are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.
