Gwenda Jean Smith

Gwen Smith, 76, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026, at Downs Care and Rehabilitation Center in Downs, Kansas.

Gwen was born on July 20, 1949, in Fairbury, Nebraska, to Jerry and Velma Smith. She grew up in Western, Nebraska, where she graduated from high school before attending Joseph's College of Cosmetology in Lincoln, Nebraska, to pursue a career in hairstyling.

Gwen moved to Kansas in her early twenties but remained a devoted Nebraska Cornhusker football fan to the very end. Throughout her life in Downs, she was dedicated to serving her community. She worked at Shirley’s Salon, helped operate a local grocery store and liquor store, and was a part owner of Myers Sporting & Supply where lifetime friendships were built. After retiring from Myers, she continued caring for others by providing in-home assistance to several elderly members of the community. Gwen will be remembered for her spunky spirit, independent nature and her love for her family, including her furry family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerry and Velma Smith.

Gwen is survived by her daughter, Shannan (Mitch) Hempler; her son, Chris (Mandy) Burda; six beloved grandchildren, Mariah, Cody, Morgan, Madison, Mareesa, and Maleah; and two cherished great-grandchildren, Carter and Aven.

Gwen's kindness, strength, and dedication to those she loved and served will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

The family invites you to stop by and spend some time sharing memories and stories on Saturday, July 18th from 2:00pm – 5:00pm at the roadside Memorial Park in Downs. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the City of Downs Parks and Recreation, supporting Carter and the youth of Downs, or to Bikes and Trykes of Central Nebraska, supporting Aven and other children who need adaptive tricycles so they can experience the simple joy of being a kid. Memorials may also be made to the Gwen Smith Memorial Fund, and the family will divide and forward the contributions between both organizations. Memorials may be sent in care of Schoen Funeral Home and Monuments, 1001 Morgan Ave., Downs, KS 67437.