Edna Irene Smith VanGilder, 94, Carthage Missouri, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home Thursday, March 13th, 2025.
Irene, as she preferred to be known, was born on March 2nd, 1931 in Seymour, Missouri to Floyd E. Smith and Pansy Ellen Caldwell Smith.
Irene graduated from Seymour, Missouri High School in 1949. She was married to Marvin L. VanGilder on October 15th, 1950 in Seymour.
After several early moves, they settled in Carthage in 1954 to raise their five children. Irene began work in the early 70’s as a florist; an occupation that she would continue well into her 80’s. Her natural artistic talents as a floral designer were priceless gifts to her family and community. She was much sought after for the beauty of her arrangements. She was also a long time leader in Mary Kay and developed relationships around the country. In addition, she was an Honorary Member of the Eastern Jasper County Historical Sites Association for her role in preserving her husbands historical research to the Jasper County Archives in Carthage, MO.
Irene, alongside Marvin, were pillars of the Carthage community for decades. Together they worked tirelessly to promote the community. In addition to many other significant accomplishments, they were among the founders of the Maple Leaf Festival and were integral in establishing the Battle of Carthage State Historic Site. While Marvin often received the headlines, none of those things would have been possible without Irene. In later years, Irene created a program with John Hacker called Handshakes and Hugs, where she rewarded people for good deeds with flowers or wreaths, hugs and a story in the Carthage Press. Irene was named Grand Marshal of both the Maple Leaf Festival Parade and the Carthage Christmas parade in honor of her service to the community.
Survivors include brother Phillip Smith, Wichita KS; children Paula Grace, Everett Washington; Linda (Tom) Brekken, Carthage; Leesa (Mark) Robinson, Carthage; Carla (Craig) Dunlop, Newport Australia; and Chris (Stephanie) VanGilder, Arkansas City KS. Nine grandchildren: Stephanie, Courtney, Brett, Micah, Hannah, Kelsey, Reiley, Alicia, and JT. Six step-grandchildren: Tracy, Mario, Percilla, Sarra, Brice, and Joshua. Eleven great-grandchildren: Russell, Kaydence, Bailey, Mattie, Genevieve, Zoe, Felicity, Reiley, Joseph, Peter, and Jeremiah. Four step-great-grandchildren: Kady, Jon, Zayah, and Remington.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Frank, Katherine, Tom, Charles, Don, and Margaret.
Following a brief graveside service Sunday March 30, 2025 at 1p.m. at Oakton Cemetery (located on South Hwy J Lamar, MO) a Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at 3p.m. at Preston Church Living Light Ministry 18252 Pembrook Carthage, MO. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, MO.
