Eleanore Smith

Eleanore Jean Smith age 95 of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 10, 2025.

She was born in Grand Rapids in the Spring of 1930 to the late Alexander and Florence Wasilewski.

Along with her parents, Eleanore is preceded in death by her husband of nearly 63 years, William E. Smith Jr. and their son Gary M. Smith. She was the last surviving of her 10 siblings.

Eleanore is survived by her sons Gregory (Deborah) Smith and Gordon (Stephanie) Smith; grandchildren, Lauren (Earl) Batenburg, Nolan Smith, Tyler (Jessica) Smith, Christopher, and Max Smith; great granddaughters, Evelynne and Olivia Batenburg and Amelia Smith as well as by several nieces and nephews.

Eleanore was the founder of the UAW Local 687 Christmas Program which supplied gifts for challenged individuals in state run facilities. She enjoyed a 40 year career with the McInerney Spring & Wire Company. Her hobbies included bowling and bingo. Eleanore was an active and engaged member of several Grand Rapids area Catholic Churches throughout her life.

Her Sons fondly recall her favorite saying: “I might not always be right, but I am never wrong!”

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at Saint Sebastian Catholic Church, (9408 Wilson Ave SW, Byron Center, MI 49315), with visiting for one hour prior beginning at 9:30 AM.

Eleanor will be laid to rest next to her husband in Resurrection Cemetery in Wyoming, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Emmanuel Hospice, (401 Hall Street SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503).

Please visit heritagelifestory.com to archive a memory or sign the guestbook online.