Although my college and career days were significant, the most life-defining event I want to be remembered for was in June of 1979 when I knelt and asked Jesus to come into my heart, and claim me as His own. I was forever changed. My love for my family changed, my love for others changed. In 1986 when I married my best friend, I knew we shared something deeper than superficial attraction. We shared the same faith, the same hope, the same love. When I gave birth to my children, adopted my daughter, each of their precious lives were like profound gifts from my loving Father. When I was diagnosed with cancer, or suffered heart failure, these were viewed through the lens of eternity, not mortality. Like amazing gifts with terrible wrapping paper, trials in my life made me fuerte— strong—and reminded me that this is not my home. Today, as you read this, know I am singing. Know I am dancing. And laughing. Lots of laughing. I am worshiping God with all my heart and I am experiencing joy beyond measure.

I thank Thee, O Lord, that Thou hast so set eternity within my heart that no earthly thing can ever satisfy me wholly. I thank Thee that every present joy is so mixed with sadness and unrest as to lead my mind upwards to the contemplation of a more perfect blessedness. And above all I thank Thee for the sure hope and promise of an endless life which Thou hast given me in the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ my Lord. —John Baillie

To my sweet family, I have tried not to keep things boring! I know a more uneventful life would have been easier, but who wants easy? Waiting for me in heaven are my sweet unborn grandchildren of whom I cannot wait to meet face to face, heart to heart. I leave behind ... but just for a blink of an eye ... my husband and best friend, Lee; my children Emma Smith Walker, Luke Smith, Summer Smith, Conley Smith and Heidy Smith. I am proud to be your mother. Really, really proud. You are the best. And my grandchildren Maisy, Betsy and Jude. Children are the rainbow of life. Grandchildren are the pot of gold. My heart is full. And on that, I say, "Goodbye, for now."

A memorial celebration for the life of Karen Smith will be held at Fellowship Bible Church in the Chapel on Saturday, May 12 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, Karen asks that you consider giving a donation to a cause that is close to YOUR heart, not hers. "Everyone should have something that they are passionate about. I want people to act on that passion. We can all change the world a little bit now."