Myra D. Smith

Heaven has gained an angel – a selfless, stubborn, and fiercely independent woman who loved the Green Bay Packers, chocolate, her family and friends (quite possibly in that order). 

Myra Diane Smith, 81, of Oshkosh, passed away peacefully Monday, July 29, 2024 at her residence after a long battle with COPD. She was born February 20, 1943, in St. Charles, IL, the daughter of Jerome and Zelda (Rubnitz) Litow. Myra earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Milton College in Milton, WI. 

Myra was many things: a loving family member, supportive friend, dedicated employee, generous volunteer, devoted companion, and the best mom anyone could have. In her humble life of service, she helped vulnerable children, disadvantaged families, and incarcerated adults as a social worker, took in those who needed a safe place to land or launch, and volunteered for countless community organizations. She was a member of Fond du Lac Evening Optimists, volunteered for FREE Spirit Riders, and was a long-time former member of Temple B’Nai Israel. Myra enjoyed sewing, gardening, and refurbishing her home. She loved animals, especially her rescue cats. 

Myra began her career as a social worker at Brooke Industries in Fond du Lac. After staying home to raise her daughter, she returned to social work at Fond du Lac County Department of Social Services and later the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. She served as a social worker at Kettle Moraine, Dodge, and Oshkosh Correctional Institutions until her retirement. 

She is survived by her daughter, Lena (Alan) Michaud; two grandchildren, Adam and Rachel; her longtime companion, Patrick Chesney, and his daughter, Celina; one brother, Mark (Cathy) Litow; niece, Jessie (Greg); and other relatives. She had a special place in her heart for the Beroukhims – Farhad, Fariba, Farnaz, and Besharat – whom she was honored to welcome into our family as they fled the Iranian Revolution in 1979. She was preceded in death by her parents and former husband, Quay Smith. 

At Myra’s request, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of her Life will take place Friday, October 25, 2024, visitation from 12:30 – 2:00 PM and service to follow at 2:00 PM at Uecker-Witt Funeral Home. 

Memorials preferred to BEAMING Equine-Assisted Services or your favorite animal rescue organization. 

Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com