Shelly Marie (Baker) Smith, age 63, passed away on March 21, 2026.
Shelly was born on July 3, 1962, in Carrollton, Missouri, to Robert Lee Baker and Norma Charlene Bailey-Baker. She attended school in Stet, Missouri, and later Hardin Central in Hardin, Missouri, where she continued her education and earned her GED. Shelly dedicated several years of her life caring for others as a CNA and CMT at Apple Ridge Care Center in Waverly, Missouri, a role that reflected her compassionate heart and steady presence.
She married Gregory Smith of Hardin, Missouri, and together they shared 46 years of marriage. They made their home in Hardin for many years before later moving to their home north of Richmond in Ray County.
Shelly was preceded in death by her father, Robert Lee Baker of Hardin, Missouri; her mother, Norma Charlene Bailey-Baker of Richmond, Missouri; and her sister, Cheryl Lee Wilson of Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
She is survived by her loving husband, Gregory Smith of Richmond, Missouri; her sister, Pamela Hughes of Lexington, Missouri; her twin brother, Robert Christopher Baker; and her cherished nieces and nephews, Brice Stewart, Heather Bates, and Carissa Seek. She also leaves behind several beloved great-nieces and great-nephews: Hannah Jo Ford, Hailey Stewart, Graison Seek, Liam Seek, Brody Seek, Maverick Seek, Ollie Stewart, and Emeline Stewart, along with many extended family members and friends who loved her deeply.
Shelly was truly one of a kind. Known for her long blonde 80s curls, purple-painted nails, and unmistakable personality, she brought humor, strength, and authenticity everywhere she went. She loved wolves, nature, and Native-inspired art, and proudly called herself a lifelong Star Trek “Trekkie.” She never missed a chance to play cards with family and had a way of making ordinary moments feel memorable.
Shelly was someone her family could always count on-a steady, reassuring presence who stayed connected through thoughtful conversations, laughter, and her meaningful handwritten birthday cards that so many looked forward to each year. Her love for her family was constant and unmistakable, and her presence will be deeply missed.
Shelly’s memory will live on through the many lives she touched with her humor, honesty, and unwavering care for the people she loved.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Luminos Hospice in Blue Springs, Missouri.
They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Lavelock Cemetery, north of Hardin. Visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 1:30 P.M. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Please remember to share your memories of Shelly with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Lavelock Cemetery, north of Hardin. Visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 1:30 P.M. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
