WOODLAWN — Paula “Joyce” Smart, 82, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

She was born March 16, 1941, in Mt. Vernon, the daughter of Opal Chelf and Henry Laswell.  She married Edmund Smart on May 7, 1960, in Mt. Vernon, and he preceded her in death.  She was partner in several businesses with her husband for over 50 years.  She was of Baptist faith, and attended New Hope “Webb” Baptist Church.

She is survived by her son, David Smart and wife Denise of Woodlawn; daughter, Jane Callahan and special friend Tim Crawford of Dix; grandsons, Jeremy Callahan of Dix, Jacob Smart of Kell, Tyler Smart and wife Madison, and Daniel Smart and partner Kayte Branch; great-grandchildren, Natilie Callahan of Dix, Samuel Smart and Mavis Smart of Woodlawn, and Kintley Smart of Mt. Vernon.

In addition to her husband, Ed Smart, she was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Jo Ann Coffey and Sue Bennett; and brother, Henry Laswell, Jr..

In accordance with her wishes, cremation rites for Mrs. Smart have been accorded and a graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, August 17, 2023, at Odd Fellows Cemetery, in Woodlawn.  Memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and will be accepted by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830.  Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.