Leigh Ann Smith

Leigh Ann Smith, a beacon of love and light, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, at the age of 68, after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer. Born on May 24, 1957, in the charming town of Tombstone, Arizona, Leigh Ann was the beloved daughter of Don and Elsie Taylor. She was a sister, a mother, a grandmother, and a friend, whose warmth touched the lives of everyone she met. Leigh Ann was married to the love of her life, Dave Smith, on June 28, 1973. Their union was a testament to true partnership and enduring love, as they shared 48 beautiful years together before Dave's passing. Her heart was a sanctuary for those she loved, and her family was her greatest treasure. Leigh Ann is fondly remembered by her daughters, Kristi (Mike) Salek and Winter (Randy) Stroud, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and compassion. Her grandchildren, Riley Salek, Domanik Smith-Otero, Skylynn Smith, and Keana Smith, and great-grandchildren, Beau and Charleigh, were the light of her life. Each of them will carry a piece of her spirit within them, a testament to the love she showered upon them. She is survived by her sisters, Colleen (Joe) Wilkey, Tina (Bobby) Beltran, and Teresa (Dale) Palkki, who, together with Leigh Ann, shared a bond filled with laughter and unwavering support. She was predeceased by her husband Dave, her parents Don and Elsie Taylor, and her brother Tim Counts, all of whom she loved dearly and is now reunited with in peace. For 35 years, Leigh Ann served as a rural route carrier, a job that suited her kind and dependable nature. She was known for her friendly demeanor and genuine interest in the lives of those she encountered daily. Her work ethic and dedication were admired by all who had the pleasure of working alongside her. Leigh Ann had a passion for the arts, finding joy in photography, drawing, painting, and crafts. Her creativity was boundless, and her works were a reflection of the beauty she saw in the world. Despite her severe allergy to horses, she held an enduring love for them, a testament to her ability to appreciate beauty even from afar. Her eyes sparkled with happiness, and her smile was truly contagious. Leigh Ann's ability to forgive, even when it wasn't deserved, was one of her most admirable qualities. She embraced life with a generous spirit and a loving heart, always putting her family first and cherishing every moment spent with them. Leigh Ann's legacy is one of love, resilience, and grace. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her. A celebration of Leigh Ann's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor the remarkable woman she was. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Leigh Ann's memory to a charity of your choice, as a way to continue her legacy of giving and caring for others. May Leigh Ann rest in eternal peace, surrounded by love and light, just as she surrounded us all during her time on earth.