Mary Louise “Weezy” Smithley, 89, of Upland, passed away at 5:55 am on Sunday, January 8, 2023, at University Nursing Center. She was born in Taylor Springs, Illinois, on Sunday, July 16, 1933, to Harry and Fern (Baxter) Moreland. On October 9, 1959, she married Jack Vernon Smithley, and he preceded her in death on November 23, 1983.
Weezy worked in the cafeteria for 21 years with Marion Community Schools until her retirement. Weezy loved dancing and listening to music, especially the oldies. She enjoyed flowers, especially receiving them as gifts. Despite her memory struggles, Weezy never stopped appreciating those in her life, and referred to the staff at University Nursing Center as her “angels.” The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of the staff at University Nursing Center for their care and compassion.
Survivors include her sons, Rick Cox of Marion and John (Sally) Davidson of Noblesville; daughters, Patti Niday of New Haven and Jacque (Bob) Ormsby of Collinsville, AL; step-sons, Vernon (Veda) Smithley and Rodney (Patty) Smithley; step-daughters, Wanda Smithley and Eula Dean (Paul) Jeffries; sisters, Goldie Cushman and Darlene Monroe; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and friends and special nieces, Robin Musick and Shelly Smithley.
She was preceded in death by her father, Harry Nelson Moreland; mother, Fern (Baxter) Moreland; husband, Jack Vernon Smithley; son, Randall Cox; step-daughter, Norma Elaine Williams; sisters, Hazel Sims, Audry Lavon Kroeger, and Donna Musick; and brothers, Jim Allen Smith and Ezra Moreland.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Friday, January 13, 2023, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN, 46933.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a funeral service to celebrate Mary’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Mick Simpkins officiating. Burial will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery in Sweetser.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
To send flowers to the family of Mary, please visit our floral store.