Naomi R. Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Naomi Ruth Smith, 80 of Johannesburg, who peacefully went to be with the Lord, surrounded by the love of her family, at her home on Friday, May 9, 2025.

Born on January 20, 1945, in Vanceburg, Kentucky, Naomi was the youngest of five children born to Robert and Gertrude (Warren) Thomas Sr. In 1951, her family relocated to Vienna, Michigan, where Naomi, affectionately known as “Ruthie,” attended Johannesburg School and graduated in 1963. As a young girl, Naomi's faith in the Lord was nurtured at Johannesburg Grace Assembly Church. She accepted Christ at the age of 10 and was baptized in her teens.

In 1962, Naomi met the love of her life, Duane Dale Smith. The two were married on October 12, 1963, and built a beautiful life together. Over the years, Naomi embraced a variety of roles. She was a dedicated homemaker, raising four children, and worked at numerous jobs in her community. Naomi began her career making steering wheel parts for Plymouth in Atlanta, MI. She also worked as an Avon representative, a teacher’s aide, a Bible school teacher, and a co-op worker. She worked at Lewiston Luster as a Production Operator, served as a waitress at The Meeting Place, Iron Kettle, and The Old Depot, and retired from Cooper Standard in Gaylord as a Quality Operator.

Naomi had a profound love for the outdoors, cultivating vegetable and flower gardens, including English and Hosta varieties. She cherished the tradition of deer hunting, often joining Duane, her sons, and grandsons. In addition to gardening, Naomi was known for making homemade pies, breads, strawberry jam, and canning. A talented seamstress, she loved sewing, crocheting hats, and creating blankets.

Naomi was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Duane, who passed away on November 13, 2022; her parents, Robert and Gertrude Thomas; and her sisters, Charlene (Pruitt) Thomas and Betty Sutter.

She is survived by her children: daughter Peggy Casagrande of Johannesburg, sons Michael (Kathie) Smith and Philip Smith of Gaylord, and daughter Marlene (Todd) Hopp of Gaylord. Naomi’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Derek (Arica) Smith, Allyson (Phil) Brink, Trevor (Mikayla) Smith, Jacob Smith, Mandy Hopp, and Ashley Casagrande; as well as her greatgrandchildren: Bronson Smith, Layla Brink, Brady Smith, and Nora Smith. Naomi is also survived by her brothers Charles (Hazel) Thomas and Robert (Carol) Thomas II, her brother-in-law Arthur Smith, and many nieces and nephews.

The family will visit with friends, sharing sweets and refreshments from 1:00-2:00 PM Sunday, May 18, 2025 at Johannesburg Christian Church. A funeral service will follow, celebrating Naomi’s life at 2:00 PM at the church with Pastor Tim Thompson officiating. Naomi will be laid to rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Johannesburg, Michigan.

In honor of Naomi’s memory, those who wish may consider making memorial contributions to Johannesburg Christian Church, PO Box 75, Johannesburg, Michigan 49751.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on the guestbook below.