Leona Nelva Smith, 82, longtime Morgan County resident, passed away Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at the Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland following a short illness. She was born August 6, 1933, in Hays, KS, to Frederick & Nelva Brueggeman.

Leona married Robert D. Smith on July 23, 1950, in Russell, KS. In 1970 the Smith family moved to Morgan County. Until ill health forced her retirement, Leona worked as an Adult Foster Care Provider.

Leona enjoyed reading, listening to country and western music, and fishing. Her favorite time was spent with her family.

Survivors include her 6 sons, Bill and his wife Belva of Fort Morgan, Alvin, and his wife Paula, Tom, Randy and his wife Drema, Jeff and his wife Debbie, all of Log Lane Village, CO, and Craig and his wife Roletta of Wray, CO; 14 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; 2 daughters-in-law Ann Smith and Lori Smith; one grandson, Christopher Smith; and her parents.

Funeral services will be Monday, January 25, 2016, at 2:00 PM at the Heer Mortuary Chapel in Fort Morgan. The service will conclude at the Chapel. Visitation will be Sunday from 10 AM -12 PM at the Heer Chapel in Fort Morgan. Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to the Leona Smith Memorial Fund c/o the Heer Mortuary.