Lois E. Smith, age 94, a cherished member of the Warsaw community and beloved matriarch of her family, passed away on Jan. 4, 2026, in Warsaw.
She was born on Sept. 24, 1931, in Silver Lake, Indiana, Lake Township, to Walter and Beatrice Bowen Drudge. Lois married Eddie Smith on Aug. 27, 1950. He passed away in January of 1991.
A proud graduate of Claypool High School in 1949 and the International Business College of Fort Wayne in 1950, Lois embarked on a successful career as the owner of Smith Tire Service in Warsaw and the Silver Inn in Silver Lake for several years. Her entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by her commitment to quality service, contributing significantly to the local economy and forging lasting relationships with customers.
Lois's passions extended beyond her business endeavors. For over 40 years, she enjoyed the warmth of wintering in Fort Myers Beach, Fla., where she was an active member of the Beach United Methodist Church. In addition to her participation in church activities, she was also a valued member of the First United Methodist Church of Warsaw. Her connections within the community were further enriched by her involvement with the Lambda Chi Omega Sorority Upsilon Chapter in Warsaw.
Family was the cornerstone of Lois's life. She leaves behind her two sons, Clark (Merla) Smith and Craig (Kelly) Smith, who carry forward her legacy of love and strength. Lois was a devoted grandmother to Cassie (Dustin) McClone, Kari (Eric) Timmerman, Hilary Smith, Shelly Hawkins and Angela (Marty) Boyle who brought her immeasurable joy. She also took great delight in her role as a great-grandmother to Tristan, Lane, Isabella, Cali, Hannah, Kiera, Andrew, Katelynn, and was proud to have three great-great-grandchildren, Willow, Reece and Ryland. Lois is also survived by her two sisters, Mary Anna Sprong and Jane Stutzman. Lois was preceded in death by her husband, her parents and her two brothers, James and Harold Drudge, leaving a void in the hearts of those who loved her. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews who remember her with affection.
As we reflect on the life of Lois E. Smith, we honor a woman of great integrity, love and resilience. Her legacy will continue through her family and the many lives she touched throughout her journey. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.
A Life Celebration visitation will be on Tuesday, Jan. 13 from 10 a.m. to noon at Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2000 Sheridan St., Warsaw. A service will be held to honor the life of Lois at noon following the visitation. Memorial contributions may be directed to Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko, 1048 325 E, Pierceton, IN 46562; and Kosciusko County Cancer Care Foundation c/o K21 Health Foundation, 1101 Park Avenue, Winona Lake, IN 46590. The family wishes to thank Paddock Springs Nursing and the entire staff for their excellent care and kindness.
Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been entrusted with Lois's care.
To send a written condolence, visit Lois's obituary page at www.TitusFuneralHome.com.