Ethel Mae Smith

Ethel Mae Smith, 94, of Lafayette, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Cumberland Point Health Campus in West Lafayette.
She was born October 18, 1931, in Macy, IN to the late Nathan and Myrtle (Williams) Enyart. She graduated from Fulton High School then went on to attend Indiana University where she studied Archeology and had a certificate in Library Science. On October 30, 1955, she married Russell “Smitty” Mith in Fulton County. He preceded her in death on August 10, 1991.
Ethel Mae was employed in direct sales for 20 years, was an avid gardener, owning several greenhouses, worked as a Home Health Aide, and was employed a Walmart for 17 ½ years, retiring in 2013.
She was an active member of Brown Street United Methodist Church during which time she sewed rice bags for the homeless. Ethel Mae enjoyed playing the violin with her father as a child. She would practice several hours a day in order to accompany him. She attended clown school and as Posy the Cown, made many balloons for Walmart customers as well as adults and children. Pet rocks were enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Ethel Mae and “Smitty” raised his 4 daughters, Betty, Janet, Linda, and Kathy.
She is survived by her sister, Eleanor Hanes of New Castle.
Along with her husband, Russell C. Smith, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Myrle Omega Miller, Alpha Marie Thomasson, Norma June Miller, Charles E. Enyart, and Nora Rose Enyart.
Memorial contributions in Ethel Mae’s name may be given to Riley Hospital for Children.
A private family interment will be held.