Jani Eileen Smith

Jani Smith, 55, died at her home in Livonia, MO, on Friday, July 3, 2015.

Jani Eileen Smith was born in Waterloo, IA, on July 13, 1959, the daughter of Bobby D. and Beverly Mae (Blackburn) Hurley. She was reared in Livonia and, except for a brief time in the state of Washington as a youngster, she lived her entire life in Livonia. Jani married Bruce Smith, Sr. in Livonia on December 31, 1986.
Jani dealt with health issues much of her life, but she retained a positive and determined spirit. She did roofing jobs with her brother Rob in her younger years, but her health forced her to focus on more sedentary activities. Jani finished an online Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting through Phoenix University. She was a homemaker who liked to do puzzles, watch the hummingbirds and play phone games, especially “Candy Crush.” Jani liked to camp and fish; the Show-Me Lake near Memphis, MO, was a favorite spot. Most of all she loved to spend time with her grandbabies. Jani was an active member of Trinity Full Gospel Church in Livonia, serving as treasurer and bookkeeper.

Jani is survived by her husband, Bruce Smith, Sr. She is also survived by two daughters, Catherine Smith of Rolla, MO, and Denae (Keller) Bowen of Bloomfield, IA, and a son, Bruce (Emily Woods) Smith, Jr. of Arbela, MO. Her three grandchildren are Isaiah and Angeileen Bowen and Anthony Smith. Jani is also survived by her mother, Beverly Hurley of Livonia, MO; by four brothers, Harvey (Alberta) Quintana, and Rob (Sheila) Hurley all of Livonia, MO, Jim (Joni) Hurley of Centerville, IA; and Bobby Hurley of Waterloo, IA; as well as a sister, JoAnn Waldon of the state of Colorado. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Jani was preceded in death by her father, Bobby Hurley, a son, Jeremy Hurley, a nephew, Benjamin Quintana, and an adopted brother Ron Miller.

Jani’s body was cremated and services will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the family and may be entrusted with Playle and Jones Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.