It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ellen Joan (Christopher) Smith of Palmer, 69, on March 18, 2022.  She was an amazing wife, mom, nana, sister and friend.

Joan and her twin sister, June, were born on September 20, 1952, in Waxahachie, Texas to David A. and Doris Faye (Allen) Christopher.

Joan was talented in so many areas. She was an extremely accomplished seamstress/upholsterer, food service chef, yard art designer, painter and homemaker. Her most long-term, deep-rooted measurement was being an amazing Nana to so many kids over the years that she babysat and cared for.

Growing up she was reared in the Grand Saline area. She was very skilled in all areas of doing Play Days and loved and competing in anything fast in the saddle. You never knew if she might be riding bare back, racing someone or breaking a horse. The family was all involved in anything with horses and going to the camp house on the weekends. Joan had a very diverse love for so many hobbies throughout her life. She loved camping, bowling, bingo, playing cards, family get togethers where games were always played, baking, sewing and most of all casinos.

Joan is preceded in death by her dad, David A., mom, Doris, brother, Andy, sister, June, sister, Linda, brother, Larry and sister-law, Donna, and best friend Doris Godwin.

Joan will lovingly remembered by the love of her life, Vernon Smith; daughter, Joey and husband, Rodney Rickman; daughter, Tabitha and husband, Scott Heard; son, James Smith and wife, Helen; son, Jeremy Smith and wife, Valasta; son, Christopher Smith and wife, Amy. She also leaves behind brother, Barry Christopher and wife, Diana. Grandchildren: Mattie and Parker Kleinert, Darian Heard, Raylee Rickman, and fiancé, Jacob Johnson, Macie and Ricardo Hernandez, Jonas Rickman, and fiancé, Jena McMullen, Micah and Anna Smith, Gregory Smith, Chandler Heard, Ashley Smith, Jace Holden and Hadlyn Smith, Cash Rickman, and Maddox Smith; three great-grandchildren: Kayden, Atticus and Amelia. She also leaves behind a few special people: Stephanie, Jacob, Justin, and Marrissa Godwin.

She will be greatly missed by her large family and church family at J Bar C Cowboy Church of Palmer.

A Celebration of life service is to be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 26, 2022 at J Bar C Cowboy Church in Palmer with Pastors Rodney Rickman and James Smith officiating.

Submitted by family.