Thelma Marie Smith-Drone, 95, passed away on June 2, 2019 at the home. She was born to Arthur and Uneita Gedward on July 14, 1923 of St. Martinville, Louisiana. She was a resident of both Louisiana and Kansas City, Missouri. Thelma was the first born child to a family of six, three boys and three girls. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Uneita Gedward; sons, Frank Smith III and Clarence Smith; brothers, Robert, Lincoln, and LeRoy Gedward; and sisters, Mary Ruby Kerelegan, and Mary Ann Valsin.

Thelma accepted Christ at an early age. She was baptized at St. Martin Catholic Church on July 28, 1923. Thelma received her education in St. Martinville, LA. Her greatest joy was cooking. She was employed with St. Joseph Dioceses and retired in 1981 after 35 years of exceptional service.

Thelma loved planning and hosting gatherings, and spending time with her family and friends. Her home was the place to be in which her family knew that she would turn a visit into a cookout which was one of the many things that she loved and cherished. She was affectionately known as "Miss Thelma" who didn't know a stranger as everyone was always welcomed in her home. She was sincerely loved by her church family at St. Therese Little Flower Parish.

Thelma enjoyed playing cards with family and friends, and she was a regular weekly bingo player. She cherished her granddaughter and great grandchildren. She was an avid giver to several organizations, and had a heart for volunteer work where she was awarded certificates of acknowledgment, recognition, and appreciation by Boys Town, EasterSeals, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and many more.

She leaves to cherish her memory: a loving husband, Howard Lee Drone of KCMO; daughter, Thelma (Tracy) Laura Smith of KCMO; special granddaughter, LaTanse LaShae LaTrice Smith-Mozee (Donnie); two grandsons, three granddaughters, and a host of great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, family and friends.

Funeral services Saturday, June 8, 9:00 a.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Interment Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation 8:00-9:00 a.m. at the chapel. Services conducted by Duane E. Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.