Catherine Aileen Smith

Catherine Aileen Smith, 88, of Robinson, Texas, passed away peacefully of natural causes on August 4, 2025, in Waco, Texas. Aileen preferred to go by her middle name and some family and friends called her “Tootsie”, a nickname bestowed on her as a child by a brother due to her love of Tootsie Rolls. Aileen was an enduring example of devotion and grace, treasured by her family and all who knew her for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith.

Born on December 10, 1936, to Josephine Catherine and Franklin Church Lowe, Aileen displayed scholastic excellence from a young age, skipping a grade in elementary school and earning membership in the National Honor Society during her high school years. She later achieved a Certificate in Business Administration, laying the foundation for a distinguished career at U.S. Veterans Affairs. There, Aileen advanced from Clerk to Chief of Finance - always a supporter of our nation's veterans - until her well-earned retirement.

In 1954, Aileen married the love of her life, U.S. Airforce veteran Jerome “Jerry” Edwin Smith. Their union extended for 65 years until Jerry’s passing in 2019. Together, they created a loving home for their three children: Derek, Donna and Daryl. Her legacy continues through her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom felt the warmth of her deep devotion.

Aileen’s life was marked by a joyful embrace of the simple things: family vacations, cruises with Jerry and family, attending her children’s/grandchildren’s sporting events and music recitals, Bible study, reading and classic films. Deeply committed to her community, she was active with the National Federal Employees Association and volunteered at both Providence Hospital and St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where her faith shone brightly.

Aileen was deeply loved by her children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. Her kind and approachable demeanor, desire to serve others, gentle humor, and Christian character will be sorely missed. But we are comforted by the sure and blessed promise that we will, one day, be reunited with her.

Aileen is survived by her children Derek Smith and Reba, Donna Mallery and husband Steve, Daryl Smith and wife Tina, six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren plus nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 13, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Pecan Grove Funeral Home. Funeral services are Thursday, August 14, at 10:00 a.m., with internment at Robinson Cemetery. All are welcome to celebrate the life of this remarkable, much-loved woman.