Leona T. “Lee” Smith
November 24, 1937 – March 14, 2025
Leona (Lee) Theresa Smith, daughter of Joseph and Pauline Reischl, was born on November 24, 1937, in Harlan, Iowa. She received her sacraments at St. Peter’s in Defiance, Iowa and attended school there as well.
On November 30, 1957, she was united in marriage to Gene Weis. They made their home in Earling, Iowa. To this union 5 children were born: Mike, Shelly, Danny, Dave, and Carol. Their son Danny died on May 31, 1972, at the age of ten. Gene passed away on May 15, 1981.
Lee’s faith was the cornerstone of her life—she prayed the rosary daily and served as a Eucharistic minister and lector. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice and a talent for playing the piano, she found great joy in music. She also loved bringing people together, especially through planning and participating in the Earling Variety Show. A passionate traveler, Lee explored many countries and enjoyed numerous cruises, always embracing the adventure of new experiences.
She was an active member of the Elk Ridge Assisted Living community, where she joined card groups and played daily, honing her skills and deepening her love of all 
games. She especially enjoyed pitch, bridge, and pinochle, cherishing the friendships and camaraderie these games brought.
On April 30, 1983, Lee married Bob Malone, and they built a life together in Omaha. Both were known for their strong work ethic, they also loved hosting family gatherings and holiday celebrations. They shared a passion for golf, spending many days on the course together. Lee dedicated her career to the post office until her retirement. Bob passed away on May 21, 2001.
On May 2, 2003, Lee married Don Smith, and together they embraced life, traveling often and making the most of their time together. They especially enjoyed dining out, frequently visiting Oscar’s, Clancy’s, and The Good Life. In their retirement, they relished their days in The Villages in Florida, where they spent time golfing and enjoying a vibrant community during the winter months. Don passed away on September 11, 2021.
Lee was devoted to her faith and was welcomed to her heavenly home on March 14, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 87 years old.
She was preceded in death by parents, Joseph and Pauline Reischl; siblings: Joseph Reischl, Ed Reischl, Mary Ann Stephenson, Cecelia Kleffman, Fr. Fred Reischl; husbands: Gene Weis, Bob Malone, and Don Smith; children, Daniel and David Weis.
She is survived by her children: Mike (Rosemary) Weis, Shelly (Ted) Wickersam, Carol (Bob) Igo; daughter-in-law, Diane Weis; stepchildren: Deb Heese, Colleen Ladwig, and the Smith family: Mark, Dave, Brian, Dale, Don, Jim; many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; sibling, Norbert (Nub) Reischl, many nieces and nephews.
Special thank you to the Elk Ridge Assisted Living Community for all their support and the commitment to Lee’s care for the past 5 years.
VIGIL SERVICE: Monday, March 17, 2025 at 7pm at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 15353 Pacific, with VISITATION from 5pm to 7pm at the church.
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Tuesday, March 18th at 10:30am, St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church. GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Tuesday, March 18th at 2:30pm at St. Joseph Cemetery in Earling, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to WeisSTRONG Cancer Foundation and Suncrest Hospice.
To view live broadcasts of the Vigil Service, Mass, and Graveside Service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
5 Comments
Sending my deepest condolences to Carol and her family. You are in our hearts and prayers.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I am keeping Carol and her family in my thoughts and prayers.
I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. My heart goes out to you. Sending my thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
My sincere sympathies Mike, Shelly, Carol and your entire families. I tried to watch the live feed, but it keeps cutting out. May Leona rest in eternal peace with those who have gone before her.
I was sorry to miss Lee’s funeral but had 2 sick kids. I considered Lee a friend and will miss her. She brought so much life to the groups she was part of, and always made me feel personally encouraged by attending my events even if they were flops! I have some hilarious memories with her I can’t share here but when I think of Lee I will picture her cracking up at something with her hand on the person next to her, head thrown back in laughter. Lee was an incredibly caring person as well and would check in on others frequently. It was always fun to see Lee enjoying trips to museums, shopping outings or restaurants. Though I only got to know Lee for 5 (?) or so years, I am grateful our paths crossed.
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