Karen “Kay” Nelson Smith, 64, of Lake Charles passed away Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2021 in a Baytown, Texas hospital.

Kay was born on Aug. 21, 1957 in Lake Charles where she was a graduate of LaGrange High School. She was a member of Trinity Baptist Church, and retired as an administrative assistant in Childrens Ministries at Trinity. For nearly 30 years, she was actively involved in Awana Children’s Ministries and was a member of Awana Ministry Team for Louisiana.

She looked forward to annual trips to Branson, Mo., their adopted second home. Upon retirement, she and Martin became full time RV’ers. Kay enjoyed playing piano for several local churches, and always smiled joyfully as she sang in choirs. Sharing God’s love was her mission. She was a beautiful witness by example of a Christian. She’ll be remembered for her caring, giving spirit, but especially for that contagious laugh.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 46 years, Martin L. Smith; children, Dustin Smith (Trent Gremillion) of Lake Charles, and Wendy Naprawa (Andrew) of Baytown, Texas; siblings, Wanda Borel, and David Bunch of Lake Charles; brother-in-law, E.J. Thibodeaux of Sulphur; adored grandchildren, Nora, Drew, and Kaylie; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Linda Thibodeaux; her parents; and two infant brothers.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021 at the North Venue at Trinity Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Highland Memory Gardens under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at the church on Monday from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and will continue on Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the start of the service.

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.