Barbara J. Smith, age 75 of Alhambra, IL, formerly of St. Louis, MO, died Monday, July 24, 2023, at Alhambra Rehab & Health Care in Alhambra, IL.

She was born on Saturday, October 11, 1947, in Saint Louis, MO, the daughter of William and Gertrude (nee Moeller) Applegate.

She married Vaal O. Smith, who passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2003.

She was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ, St. Louis, MO.

Barbara was born and raised in South St. Louis, attended Scruggs Elementary School and graduated from Cleveland High School. In her youth she was a Bethel #3 Job's Daughter, Past Honor Queen. She began teaching at Rockwood School District, St. Louis County, MO, September 1, 1969, until May 26, 2000, as a elementary teacher, mainly third grade. She received her Bachelor of Science degree, August 8, 1969 and a Masters degree, January 8, 1978, both from the University of Missouri, St. Louis. She and her husband showed dogs, entering many dog shows and competitions. At one time they owned over 30 dogs.

Survived by:
Brother - William R. (Sandra K.) Applegate, Jr., of Saint Louis, MO.

She was preceded in death by:
Father - William Robert Applegate, Sr.
Mother - Gertrude M. (nee Moeller) Applegate
Husband - Vaal O. Smith, Jr. - Died 4/9/2003.

Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL.

Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM to on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, at Alhambra Rehab & Health Care in Alhambra, IL.

Graveside Service will be at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Cedar Hill, MO.

Interment will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Cedar Hill, MO.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children.