Velma Jean Smith

Velma "Jean" Smith, 84, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully on the evening of December 30, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born Velma Jean Lowery on June 13, 1941, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Jean was known for her sharp mind and spirited personality. Despite suffering a stroke in August 2024, she remained remarkably herself until the very end—retaining her quick wit, trademark sarcasm, and an "elephant-like" memory. She possessed an uncanny ability to overhear every conversation in the room, even when others thought she wasn't listening, and her sense of humor never wavered.

For the last 15 months of her life, Jean resided at a care facility in Carmel, Indiana. There, she was doted on by a nursing staff with whom she formed close bonds. Jean found joy in the simple pleasures of life: the daily newspaper, a good book, and the company of her feline companions. She was also a dedicated practitioner of "sleeping until the crack of noon."

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Adrene and Ercel Lowery; her daughter, Diana Davis; her sons, Mark Foxworthy and Dana Smith; and her brothers, Donald "Donnie" and Robert Lowery.

She is survived by her brother David Lowery, sons, David (Allison) Foxworthy, Mike (Michele) Foxworthy, and Sean (Angela) Smith; and her beloved feline son, Charles Mortimer Smith. Her legacy lives on through her ten grandchildren: Ashley (Thomas) Getreu, Evan Foxworthy, Mark Foxworthy Jr., Sara Victor, Patience (Philip) Adkins, Sydney Foxworthy, Maddie Foxworthy, Hallie Gick, Salem Smith, and Evan Gick; as well as 13 great-grandchildren: Carson, Cameran, Logan, Layton, Ben, Claire, Grant, Gavin, Emersyn, Phoenix, Phelix, Phoebe, and Nissi.

Family and friends may share memories or offer condolences through www.indianafuneralcare.com or the Legacy.com guestbook