NEW WHITELAND
Connie Jean (Riley) Smith, 66, of New Whiteland, died Wednesday, March 8, 2017, at her home. After courageously fighting cancer for the past seven months, Connie finally lost her battle.
She was born to William Woodrow and Betty Jean (Neptune) Riley on Aug. 12, 1950, in Columbus.
Connie was a 1968 graduate of Hauser Jr./Sr. High School.
She remained in Hartsville until marrying Richard Grant Smith on June 3, 1972, and moving to Columbus. It was there that Rick and Connie raised their family.
She was a former employee of Cummins Engine Co.
Connie was a member of Our Lady of the Greenwood Roman Catholic Church as well as GRRACE (Golden Retriever Rescue and Community Education).
Connie enjoyed relaxing stays at West Baden, with Rick and their golden retriever, Katie. She was an avid reader and enjoyed working crossword puzzles, and spent much of her time telling anyone who would listen about her grandchildren, Jack Ethan and Emma Grace Smith.
Connie is survived by her husband, Rick Smith of New Whiteland; two sons, William Ryan (Jennifer) Smith of Lafayette and Aaron (Dianne) Smith of Indianapolis; and two grandchildren, Jack and Emma Smith.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Betty Riley.
A calling will be 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, with a service immediately following from 3 to 4 pm., at Jessen Funeral Home, Whiteland Chapel, 729 U.S. 31 North, Whiteland.
Memorial donations may be made in Connie’s honor to Community Home Health Care: Hospice; payable to: Community Health Network Foundation, 7240 Shadeland Station, Suite 125 Indianapolis, IN 46256; and/or GRRACE, P.O. Box 513, Plainfield, IN 47168.
Information: www.jessenfuneralhomes.com.
