Lois Ann (Correll) Smith, born on June 2, 1934, in Stoy, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, at Casey Rehab and Nursing, surrounded by the love of her family. Her 92 years were marked by grace, resilience, and a deep devotion to those she held dear.
Lois lived a life defined by kindness. She had a gentle presence that brought comfort to others, and she carried herself with a quiet strength that inspired everyone who knew her. Her compassion was steady, her generosity unwavering, and her ability to make others feel valued was one of her greatest gifts.
Family was the heart of Lois’s world. She poured her love into every relationship, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and understanding. Her wisdom guided generations, her encouragement uplifted those facing challenges, and her unconditional love became a foundation her family will forever cherish. One of her favorite pastimes was working puzzles, crocheting, and simply spending time with her family—moments that brought her joy and reflected the gentle, thoughtful way she lived her life.
Lois dedicated many years of service to her community. She retired from the Oblong School District, where she worked faithfully as a school bus driver, ensuring countless children arrived safely each day. She also spent several years delivering The Decatur Herald and The Robinson Daily News, a role she played with reliability and pride. In addition, Lois and her husband Larry mowed several yards in the Oblong area for many local residents—a side hustle they enjoyed doing together.
Lois was a longtime member of Bible Chapel Christian Church, where her faith, fellowship, and quiet strength were evident in the way she lived and cared for others.
She is survived by her daughters Robert Wilcox, Cindy (Michael) Cooper, and Terri (Michael) Inboden, and by her sons Earl Smith (Michael), Brian (Kim) Smith, and Dennis (Kristina) Smith. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law Jim and Susan Correll, and sister-in-law Mary Correll, along with several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will continue to carry her memory forward with love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ira and Belva Correll; her husband of 70 years, Larry; her daughter, Sue Helderman; her grandsons Stephen Cooper and Jakeb Smith; her brothers and their wives William and Carolyn Correll, Clair and Shirley Correll, Jerry Correll, Merl Correll, and Ellis Correll; and her in-laws Earl and Anna Smith. Their memories remain intertwined with hers, held close by the family she loved so deeply.
Lois will be remembered for her thoughtful nature, her welcoming spirit, and the way she found beauty in simple moments. Her legacy lives on in the stories shared, the traditions she nurtured, and the love she gave so freely.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Pulliam Funeral Home in Oblong, Illinois. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Brother Randy Nave officiating.
Inurnment will be in Watts Cemetery in Oblong immediately following the services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Memorial Giving 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105
Paws for Prevention Crawford County, IL Spay and Neuter 800 S. Jackson St. Robinson, IL 62454
Memorials may also be sent to Pulliam Funeral Home, 302 East Main Street, P.O. Box 121, Oblong, Illinois 62449.
The family has requested that everyone dress in casual clothing.
Pulliam Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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