Avada Smith

Ruth Avada Smith, a beloved mother, Nana, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the Coleman County Medical Center, surrounded by her dear daughter Jeaninne and son-in-law Toby Terry. Born on Friday, May 13, 1938, in Breckenridge, Texas, Avada's life was one of devotion, creativity, and resilience, leaving behind a legacy woven with love and compassion.

Her early education took place in Winters, Texas, but it was her heart and spirit that truly defined her. At the tender age of 16, Avada married Roland Stanley, marking the start of a long chapter in Coleman, where she would establish her home for the rest of her life. After her marriage to Roland, she was a homemaker and in 1968 they built and operated Stanley’s Drive-In Grocery on Neches Street, which was later acquired by Colonial. Following the end of her 16-year marriage, she trained to become a Certified Nurses Aide and was employed at Holiday Hill for a number of years. She also made money as a seamstress for many years. In 1972, she found love again with Ardell Smith, with whom she shared 13 years. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her work, finding expression in her culinary talents. Known for her good cooking and baking, she delighted many with her famous divinity, dumplings, and pies.

A woman of deep faith, Avada's spiritual journey began in the Church of Christ and led her through various congregations, including Concho Baptist Church and Community Baptist Church, before returning to Elm Street Church of Christ, where she once again found her spiritual home. Each step along her religious path reflected her quest for community and connection, nurturing a strong bond with faith and fellowship.

Avada was not just defined by her roles as a caregiver and baker; she was also a devoted mother and Nana, whose love for her family was unwavering. The joy of her grandchildren—Laken Middleton (and husband Perry) and Maelena (Mae) Terry, along with her great-grandchildren Stanton, Shanley, and Rylea Middleton—filled her days with laughter and warmth, as did the grandchildren of her heart, Leif and Kelli Scott, and their beloved children Lilly, Emmy, and Jagger. Avada’s spirit lingered in her favorite pastimes, such as reading, doing crafts and journaling.

Avada is survived by her daughter Candace (Jeaninne) Terry and son-in-law Toby, along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who carry forward her vibrant spirit. She further leaves behind special people in her life who felt like family—Jenness White and husband, James, Sandra Burns, Misti Grim, Deanna McNally, and Mark Mann—as well as several nieces and nephews who will remember her warmth and kindness.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Adgie James Hodges, and Rosa Pearl Gray Hodges, along with her brother Arthur James (Art) Hodges and sister Lena Pearl Galyeon. Avada’s former husbands, Roland Stanley and Ardell Smith, also found a place in the tapestry of her life, each chapter significant and meaningful.

For her friends and family, Avada will be available for viewing from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, and from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 22, at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan Street, Coleman. The family welcomes anyone who would like to come sign her registry and pay their final respects. A private family burial will be held.

For anyone wishing to honor Avada's memory, donations may be sent to the Coleman Senior Center, 1303 Highway 84 Bypass, Coleman, Texas 76834. The family would love for anyone to share any special memories they have of her on Avada's obituary page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com, as well as offering condolences and messages of comfort. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Avada Smith.