Phyllis Marie Smith, a beloved member of the Hartford community, peacefully departed this world on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Edgewood Assisted Living at the age of 89.

Born on March 18, 1936, to Ellis and Lena (Weyand) Marker in Miranda, South Dakota, Phyllis was baptized at the Methodist Church on June 14, 1936. She attended public school, where she not only excelled academically but also embodied grace and spirit, becoming Homecoming Queen at Orient High School in 1954.

Eager to make a difference in young lives, Phyllis pursued her Teaching Degree from Northern State Teachers College in Aberdeen, South Dakota. On July 12, 1957, she married Lloyd A. Smith, at the Methodist Church in Pierre, South Dakota. Together, they welcomed three children: Rick, Dale, and Linda.

Phyllis devoted two years to teaching in a one-room country school in Miranda, South Dakota, before the family settled in Sioux Falls in 1965. There, she took on the role of teacher's aide at Hawthorne Elementary School for a couple of years, further touching the lives of children. Later, residing in Hartford, Phyllis served as a mentor, a role she cherished profoundly. Phyllis also worked in real estate and with the Census Bureau.

A dedicated member of the Methodist Church since December 18, 1949, Phyllis served as the UMW Treasurer for five meaningful years and was an active member of the Nocturne Circle for 32 years, where she formed lasting friendships.

Phyllis had a deep love for the outdoors, attending to her vegetable garden, pulling weeds, mowing grass, wild animals, and the beauty of nature, which complemented her spirited passion for the Green Bay Packers. Phyllis enjoyed baking and she was well-known for her renowned banana bread. Phyllis was an excellent cook. She enjoyed cooking Sunday dinners for her family and it became a cherished tradition. However, her greatest passion was spending time with her grandchildren.

Phyllis leaves behind a vibrant legacy through her children: Rick Smith of Menno, SD, Dale Smith of Hartford, SD, and Linda Smith of Sioux Falls. She was a proud grandmother to five grandchildren: Zachary (Tasha Nelson) Woods, Taylor (Maca Escondrillas-Smith) Smith, Tucker (Julia Easter) Smith, Tara Smith, and Samantha (Izaak) Richeson, as well as ten great-grandchildren, Ella (Johnny) Cooper, Mara Dammer, Alejandro Escondrillas-Smith, Pippa Escondrillas-Smith, Elijah Richeson, Atlas Richeson, Apollo Richeson, Jack Smith, Sloane Smith, and Nevaeh Woods, each of whom she loved dearly. Phyllis is also survived by her grandson-in-law, Peter Weise of Sioux Falls; her sister, Hazel Witte, along with sisters-in-law, Judy Witte and JoAnn Robideau, and brother-in-law, Dean Robideau.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ellis and Lena Marker; her brother, Donald Marker; her beloved grandson, Cody Owen Smith; her brothers-in-law, Duane Smith and Kenny Witte; and her husband of 66 years, Lloyd Smith.

As we remember Phyllis, we celebrate a life filled with love, compassion, and unwavering support for her family and community. Her warmth and kindness will be deeply missed, but will continue to inspire those who knew her.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Miller Hartford Chapel, 600 S. Western Avenue, Hartford, SD 57033. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Hartford United Methodist Church, 102 E. 2nd Street, Hartford, SD 57033. Phyllis will be laid to rest next to her late husband, Lloyd A. Smith, at Faulkton City Cemetery, Faulkton, South Dakota.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff at St. Croix Hospice and Edgewood Greenleaf Assisted Living for their compassionate and dedicated care. Your kindness and support have made a meaningful difference during this time, and we are truly grateful for all that you do.