lisa dell (patterson) smitherman
Lisa
Dell Smitherman, a loving mother, devoted wife, and community stalwart,
joined her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 15, 2016,
following a brief illness and hospitalization. Lisa was a unique soul
whose absence leaves an immeasurable void because her impact was
far-reaching. While Lisa’s death was a sudden and tragic loss, our
mourning is joined with remembrance of her joy-filled life and of the
light she brought to all who knew and loved her.Lisa is survived by her husband, Dr. Bryan Smitherman and their children Ross and Carol-Anne; sisters, Nancy Moore and husband, Jim of College Station and Dena Houchin and husband, Don of Houston; nephews, Derek Moore, wife Holly and children Grace and Emily of College Station and Darren Moore, wife Terri and children Jacob, Stella and Alex of Pantego; Bryan’s parents, Tony and Monta Jean Smitherman of McLean; sister-in-law, Beth Campbell, husband Jim and children Lauren, Thomas, Jennifer and Kevin of Allen.
Lisa is preceded in death by her parents, Henry J. and Dell Oran Patterson; beloved grandparents O. H. “Hoss” and Stella Heard; infant brother, Tim Patterson; and sister, Annette Patterson.
Lisa was born and raised in Petersburg, Texas, the fourth daughter of Henry and Dello. Through her childhood and adolescence, several family members provided a loving home for her, including Jim and Nancy Moore, Mentor and Tye Heard, Hoss and Stella Heard, and Shirley Groce.
On May 1, 1999, she married her true companion, Dr. Bryan Smitherman. Their life together has been one characterized by adventure, blessing and laughter. Lisa loved her children deeply and her commitment leaves them with precious memories of childhood and the strength they need for the days ahead. Lisa lived her life with purpose and conviction after losing her parents at a young age. After graduating from Texas Tech University, she became a business leader in the local community, both at Lubbock National Bank and later as Vice President, Human Resources for United Supermarkets. She earned the respect of co-workers because of her commitment, her intelligence, and her wisdom.
Lisa loved her church family at First United Methodist Church where she served tirelessly. Serving was in her nature as she also mentored young women at Texas Tech for many years as a chapter advisor for Kappa Kappa Gamma. Her children’s schools found in her a committed worker as well. In short, Lisa readily volunteered her time and many creative and organizational talents wherever she found a need. In addition to her business achievements and volunteer work, Lisa was always mindful of welcoming and making others feel at home. She will be remembered as a vivacious personality, a gracious hostess, a sharp mind and a well-loved member of the Lubbock community.
Lisa loved to travel, and she and Bryan made many unforgettable trips around the world, from the Taj Majal to St. Petersburg, Russia. Sometimes they even let Ross and Carol-Anne join! Perhaps her favorite destination was Italy. She loved the serenity, the food, and the people. A gracious host drawn to gracious hosts.
Lisa was known to remark that life isn’t a dress rehearsal and should be lived to the fullest every day. Her life truly matched that mantra! All of her family and friends far and near treasured her — she was truly the light and laughter of our lives. She is irreplaceable. We miss her today and every day. While we grieve now, we are eternally grateful that she truly lived.
Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 18, 2016 at Venue on Broadway, 2202 Broadway, with the family receiving friends 5:30-8:00 p.m. A celebration of her life is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Monday, September 19, 2016, at First United Methodist Church, 1411 Broadway in Lubbock. The service will be officiated by Dr. Craig Curry, Dr. Shera Atkinson, and Reverend Cliff Wright. Those desiring to honor Lisa’s memory are encouraged to contribute to the Columbarium Fund, c/o Jeanine Austin at First United Methodist Church or the Music Ministry at FUMC.