In Loving Memory of Lila Lee Smit

Lila Lee Smit, 88, of Viborg, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025. A devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and beloved friend to many, Lila was a beacon of love, warmth, and kindness in the lives of all who knew her. She was blessed with good health up until her passing, living life to the fullest with energy, love, and laughter.

Born on August 3, 1936, in Dalesburg, South Dakota, Lila was raised by her loving mother, Anna, after the passing of her father when she was just a young child. Growing up in a close-knit family with nine siblings, she learned the values of resilience, kindness, and hard work early on. At just 12 years old, her independent and ambitious spirit shined—she sold holiday cards to buy herself a bike and roller skates. She graduated from Centerville High School in 1954 and later married Ray Smit, with whom she had two children, Linda and Doug.

Lila had a heart made for caring, and she spent her life sharing that love with others. Whether working at Centerville Good Samaritan Home, JoDean's, or caring for special needs clients in Northfield, Minnesota—especially Sarah, Jessie, Steven, and Tad—Lila's nurturing spirit was unmatched. She found joy in celebrating life's small moments, always making birthdays and holidays extra special for those in her care.

Her family was her greatest treasure, and she never let distance or time stand in the way of staying connected. She was famous for her heartfelt phone calls—checking in, making sure everyone was well, and ending each conversation with an "I love you." She also made sure every special occasion was celebrated with a personal touch, sending handwritten cards filled with thoughtful notes to family members—spreading love with every heartfelt message.

Her warmth radiated wherever she went. Whether shopping for a bargain or enjoying an afternoon of bingo and music, Lila had the uncanny ability to turn strangers into friends. She also enjoyed watching the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Twins on TV and loved spending time on the water.

Lila's life was a testament to love, laughter, and kindness. Her advice to younger generations, "Be Yourself," is a reflection of the authentic, genuine way she lived.

Her family and friends will deeply miss her boundless compassion, infectious humor, and unwavering love—but they will carry her spirit in their hearts forever.

Lila is survived by her loving children, Linda (Brad) Trudeau of Centerville, SD, and Doug Smit of Hurley, SD. She was an adoring grandmother to six grandchildren: Tracy Kopp of Sioux Falls, SD; Kristie (Todd) Shafer of Brentwood, TN; Amanda (Alex) Goodburn of Vermillion, SD; Tiffany (Scott) Block of Hurley, SD; Billy Smit of Viborg, SD; and Danny (Katie) Smit of Parker, SD. She also leaves behind ten cherished great-grandchildren—Alex and Nic Kopp;; Lila Shafer; Emily and Jack Goodburn; Charlie and Cooper Block; Alauna Smit; Raylon and Rylee Smit—along with numerous nieces and nephews, a dear sister-in-law, Connie, and many treasured friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Anna, husband, Ray Smit, seven brothers—Vernon, Virgil, Spike, Jim, Donnie, Ronnie, and Les—and two sisters, Eve and Leona.