of Conway, AR
January 28, 1952 - September 1, 2024
Nannette Lee (Hays) Smith, 72, of Conway, Arkansas died peacefully at home on September 1, 2024. She was born in Fort Worth, Texas on January 28, 1952 to Edward M. and Ruby L. (Awbrey) Hays.
In her early years, Nannette moved often while her father served in the Air Force. She attended various schools in Germany, Texas, North Carolina, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Arkansas. After graduating from Mayflower High School, she obtained a bachelor's degree in education with a double major in English and Spanish, as well as a master's degree in education in Reading from the University of Central Arkansas. She taught at North Little Rock School District for 35 years and retired in 2012.
Nannette was an avid reader all her life and extremely knowledgeable about a variety of topics. Her favorite past time was watching the Hallmark Channel. She enjoyed scrapbooking (Shutterfly was her biggest fan), traveling, attending plays and concerts and spending time with friends and family.
She is survived by daughters, Diana Howell, Deana Howell and granddaughter, Jaqueline Howell all of Conway; brother, Dale (Michele) Hays and nephew, Sean (Shanna) Hays all of Colorado.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, John Smith and niece, Kia Hays.
A visitation will be held Tuesday, September 10th from 6:00-8:00pm at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway, Arkansas. Chapel services will be held Wednesday, September 11th at 1:00pm at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home in Conway, Arkansas.
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13 Condolence(s)
Anita Bell
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Nanette was someone who always showed up. I have so many memories of her, from Ridgeroad Jr. High, NLRCTA, and East Campus. She loved her family so much! May God comfort all of you during this time.
Susie Ritchie
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
I have so many fond memories from our teaching years at Ridgeroad and East Campus.
May God’s grace comfort you.
Becky Heathcock
Sunday, September 8, 2024
My heartfelt sympathy to the family. Many words come to mind to describe Nannette-dedicated, knowledgeable, passionate, compassionate, polite, considerate, understanding, fair, generous, open minded, humble, kind, calm, honest, sincere, dependable and diplomatic. She was a strong advocate for her students and fellow teachers. What I admired about her the most is that she never felt the need to “state her importance”. The song, “Thank You For Being A Friend” comes to mind.
Thank you for being a friend
Traveled down a road and back again
Your heart is true, you’re a pal and a confidant
All of us “Golden Girls” and “Golden Guys” will miss you! May you rest in peace our dear friend.
Ronnie Jones
Sunday, September 8, 2024
So sorry for your loss . Yall are in my prayers
Glynna Condray
Saturday, September 7, 2024
Thankful for the long term relationship with Nannette through our years as educators in the NLR school district. She was a treasured friend. Will remember her and her influence in both George and my lives.
Melissa Douglas
Thursday, September 5, 2024
Nanette was the very first teacher I worked with when becoming a teacher myself. She taught me so many important things in education and I will always treasure that. I will remember her and your family always and know you are in my prayers.
April J Reisma
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
We extend condolences to the family from the entire Board of the Arkansas Education Association. We are indebted to the years of service Ms. Nannette gave to the Association.
Karon Yant
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
Lots of thought and prayers for you all in this time of sorrow. She fought a hard battle but at peace now. Deana you did a great job taking care of her in her final days love ya girl
John Tate
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
She never had a bad day that showed. Always found a way to move through tough times to the other side. A good example for everyone.
Sherry Smith
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
She was a wonderful lady. I enjoyed working in CTA with her. So sorry for your loss
Maria Barbarotto
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
She was a lovely lady. She taught her daughters to be intelligent and loyal, just as she was...
Love for the entire, precious family.
Johnni Harris
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Love you guys!
Jackie Govan
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
In loving memory of Nannette and her ongoing contributions to the education field! Thank you for making a difference in life for others! May God continue to bless and provide strength to your family and friends…. I know they will miss you! . Jg