Dorcas Pearl Richards Smith

Dorcas Pearl Richards Smith, age 92, of Springville, Utah, passed away peacefully March 12, 2009 at her home. She was born July 2, 1916 in Buist, Idaho to John Eugene and LaVina Pearl Richards.



Dorcas lived a long, abundant life. The Richards spent their summers dry land farming in Idaho; their winters in Logan, Utah so the children could attend school. When Dorcas was 15 years old her family moved to Lehi, Utah where she graduated from high school. She attended BYU majoring in homemaking. She kicked up her heels with a dinner/dance sorority called Cesta Ti. She married Max B. Smith on December 25, 1936 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. (That's right Christmas Day) He died June 12, 1995.



Max and Dorcas moved back and forth from California to Utah finally settling in Springville, Utah. They raised their five children in Springville and called this place home. Dorcas had two loves: family and church. She willingly served in several church organizations, the Primary being the longest. She was a Primary President, but maybe more importantly, she enjoyed her position as nursery leader for 15 years despite being called in her sixties. For over 70 years she faithfully visit taught the sisters in her ward. (Lucky Ducks!) She worked for Nebo School District in the school lunch program for 27 years. She was also a volunteer at the Springville Museum of Art.



Dorcas had many friends; together they created a club which lasted over 60 years. She enjoyed golfing, crocheting, playing cards and making quilts for family members. Since 1964 family and friends have gotten together every Sunday night at her home to relax, visit and have treats. Dorcas was good to everyone she interacted with, especially her family. We will miss Dorcas's calming presence in our lives. We won't forget her strength during tough times and her deep perspective that gave a secret wisdom about life.



She is survived by her four children. Kent (Alice) Smith, Milford, UT; Craig (Diann) Smith, New Canaan, CT; Cheryl (Howard) Stewart, Springville, UT; Chad (Lori) Smith, Springville, UT; a daughter in law, Annette Smith Nielsen, (Steven) Mapleton, UT; 24 grandchildren, 53 great grandchildren, 6 great, great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Max B. Smith, a son Scott Smith; and six brothers, Preston Richards, J. R. Richards, Mayo Richards, Jack Richards, Spencer Richards, and Norman Richards.



The family would like to express appreciation to Dr. Gary Garner, Nancy Trapnell and Annette Nielsen for the loving care they extended to Dorcas and the knowledgeable help they provided the family.



Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 20, 2009 at the Seventh Ward LDS Chapel, 1785 East 400 South, Springville, Utah. Friends and family may call Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South, Springville, Utah or Friday morning at the church from 9:45 to 10:45 prior to services. Burial will be in the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.