Nancy Sonnenberg Smith

Nancy Sonnenberg Smith, born Nancy Ann Sonnenberg on May 24, 1934, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on April 8, 2024, in Olathe, Kansas, at the age of 89.

Nancy was the beloved matriarch of the Smith family, known for her grace, style, and caring nature. She had an engaging personality and an intelligent, curious mind. Nancy was a woman of impeccable taste, with a love for music, books, the KC Royals, the Kansas City Chiefs, and adorable dogs. A devout Catholic, she instilled kindness and compassion in her family.

Preceded in death by her husband, Paul M. Smith, Sr., after 63 years of marriage, Nancy cherished their life together, raising a family, helping build a business, and enjoying worldwide travel and leisure time in Florida. Affectionately known as "Mama Nancy," "Nana" and "Fancy Nancy," she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Nancy's competitive spirit shone through in tennis, golf, bridge, and especially family party games, where she never allowed anyone to beat her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Nancy is survived by her brother, Ray Sonnenberg of Kansas City, MO and her sister Katy Sonnenberg Tillett of Scottsdale, AZ.  She is also survived by her five children, Paul Smith Jr., (Meg) of Kansas City, MO, Sheila Smith, (Carl Sears) of Arlington, VA, Bryan Smith, (Krisie) of Leawood, KS, Matt Smith, (Karen) of Seattle, WA, Kelly Carter, of Kansas City, MO.   Nancy is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Jeffrey, Jenner, Ryan, Katie, Patrick, Rachel, Emily, Matthew, Jack, Payton, Blair, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 24th, at Cure of Ars Catholic Church, 9401 Mission Road in Leawood, KS. There will be a 10:00 am visitation followed by an 11:00 Mass. The inurnment will follow immediately in Calvary Cemetery, 6901 Troost Avenue in Kansas City, MO.

Contributions can be made to the Raymond and Helen Sonnenberg Family Scholarship fund at Rockhurst High School in Kansas City, MO.

The family would like to thank the staff of Santa Marta Retirement Community and St. Croix Hospice for their wonderful, compassionate care.

Rest in peace, Nancy Sonnenberg Smith. Your true spirit of love and strength will always be remembered.