MRS. PHYLLIS SMITH, of Lethbridge, passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Saturday, September 26, 2009 at the age of 104 years.

She is survived by her son Robert of Lethbridge, her sister Irene Elle of Medicine Hat, and brothers Anton Gross of Kelowna, Felix Gross Jr. of Vancouver, and William Gross of Lethbridge.

Phyllis was born in Harvey, North Dakota, the oldest of eleven children, of Felix Gross and Magdalena Fettig. She emigrated at an early age with her family to the Grassy Lake area, and learned firsthand how hard farm work could be. She later moved to Lethbridge, taking secretarial/business courses before employment. She also took piano instruction. She later married Allan Smith who moved here from Edmonton and stayed. She was very capable and meticulous in anything she undertook, and could always find a solution to any problem or obstacle. She had a sense of style and was known around town for her great hats! Although not an outgoing person, Phyllis had a quiet manner that endeared her to many. She was a member of the Lethbridge Historical Society and later the Sketch Club (Lethbridge Artists Club), becoming a life member there for her contribution. Her paintings revealed the inner life of a beautiful soul. Her strength of character, honesty, and work ethic will remain an inspiration to all who knew her.

May God comfort and protect her on her final journey.