Janet Lee Smith

Janet Lee Smith passed away February 6, 2023 at her home in Eustis at the age of 87.  Janet was born on August 19, 1935 in Eustis, Nebraska to Irven and Mabel (Balcom) Rupe. She attended country school south of Eustis until the eighth grade and then graduated from Eustis Public Schools. She obtained her teaching certificate at Kearney, Nebraska and taught country school for 2 years. On May 22, 1955, Janet married Kenneth Smith, the love of her life. They made their home on the family farmstead south of Eustis and were blessed with four children, Steven, Daniel, Mary and Jeanne. Janet continued living her life at home on the family farm after the passing of her husband in 2009.

She enjoyed putting puzzles together and coloring. She had a love for all animals. Her most treasured times were spent with her grandchildren.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and grandson, Kirk Smith. Survivors include her children, Steven (Marilyn) Smith of Farnam, Daniel (Machelle) Smith of Lexington, Mary (Bruce) Deterding of Eustis and Jeanne (Paul) Blender of Eustis; grandchildren, Sarah Anderson, Jordan (Jodi) Deterding, Emily (Roman) Netherton, Matthew Blender, Jessica Deterding, Mickayla Blender and Malcom Smith; great grandchildren, David, Nicholas and Abigail Anderson and Wade and Whitley Deterding; brother, Dennis (Jane) Rupe of Eustis; and brother in law, Kermit (Janice) Smith of Eustis.

Memorials are suggested to the Eustis Ag Society. Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Services will be held Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Eustis with Pastor Kathy Gundell officiating. Burial will be held prior to the service at Eustis East Cemetery. Visitation with family present will be Friday, February 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church. Berryman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.