Mary Jane Smith, 90, of Odin, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2025, at the home she raised her family in Odin. She was born on November 15, 1935, the daughter Harold and Leona (Pence) Templeman. She was raised by Virgie (Pence) Sapp. She married her one true love, Paul Delano Smith, on December 7, 1956, in Watseka, IL. He preceded her in death on January 19, 1999.
Survivors remaining to carry on her legacy; Cathy Shanafelt and husband Jerry of Odin, Mike Smith of Odin, Mark Smith and wife Sandi of St. Petersburg, Florida; grandchildren, Amy Shanafelt, Jamie Shanafelt and a precious great-grandchild, Landon Johnson; sister, Sharon Hedrick, and husband Jerry; sisters-in-law, Shirley Smith, Ruth Campbell, Lottie Campbell; many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Mary Jane was preceded in death by; her parents, Harold and Leona Templeman, her parents that raised her, Virgie Sapp her beloved husband, Paul Smith; daughter Dana Marie Myers; grandson, Ryan Myers; sister, Kathaleen Wofford; brothers, Carl “Zeke” Templeman and wife Mary Virginia, Jerry Campbell, James Campbell and wife Rose, and Allen Campbell; brother-in-law Jim Smith and sister-in-law Betty Fry.
Mary Jane was a sweet-tempered woman with a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor with humility. A woman of deep and steadfast faith, she was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church in Odin. She served as the Church Treasurer for many years. Strong yet gentle, she was the matriarch not only of her family but of her community. She was a steady, trusted presence whose influence reached far beyond her own home.
Mary Jane had a special place in her heart for the simple, faithful companions in life. Over the years, her beloved Dachshunds brought her loyalty, each one a cherished friend who filled her home with devotion. She found comfort in their companionship and a deep happiness in caring for them. Mary Jane also found peace in the quiet beauty of nature, especially in bird watching for the red cardinals that would appear as if just for her. A moment of beauty and tranquility in their graceful movements of vibrant color.
A proud graduate of Gilman High School, Class of 1953, Mary Jane built a life centered on family and service. She was the very best grandmother, faithfully cheering on her grandchildren at every sporting event and school activity. Mary Jane helped raise her family with unwavering dedication while also serving others professional working nine years at Illinois Bell Telephone and nearly fifteen years with Odin Township, where she assisted countless individuals in securing the aid and resources they needed. A natural caregiver, she also provided compassionate care to several senior citizens. Mary Jane lived a life rooted in love, strength, and service.
A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Thursday, February 19, 2026 at the Day Macz Funeral Home in Sandoval with RC Merten officiating. Interment will follow at Peaceful Valley Cemetery in Odin. A visitation time for family and friends will be from 12:00 P.M. until the time of service on day at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to family’s wishes and will be accepted at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories of Mary Jane may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
