Gaynell Smith

Gaynell Smith, 89, of Robinson, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, at St. Catherine's Nursing Home in Waco.

Born on May 2, 1937, in Lampasas, Texas, Gaynell was the daughter of Thomas and Opal Haynie. She grew up with a love for horseback riding, treasured her beloved dogs, and embraced the simple joys of country life. She graduated from Lampasas High School in 1955 before earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from West Texas State University.

Teaching was never just a profession for Gaynell—it was her life's calling. Over the course of an extraordinary 40-year career in education, she devoted herself to shaping young minds and encouraging generations of elementary school students. She taught in Pampa, Dimmitt, DeKalb, Marlin, and ultimately Midway Independent School District, where her dedication and love for her students earned her the admiration of parents, and fellow educators alike. She was honored as Teacher of the Year at multiple schools throughout her career, a testament to the lasting impact she made in the classroom.

Beyond her career, Gaynell lived a life rooted in faith, friendship, and family. She was a member of Crossroads Baptist Church in Lorena. She enjoyed her Bible Study Fellowship. She was also a proud member of Delta Kappa Gamma, the international society for women educators, where she formed lasting friendships with fellow teachers.

Gaynell found joy in life's little celebrations. She loved decorating her home for Christmas, gathering with friends for Bunco, and caring for animals throughout her life. She was a gracious hostess who delighted in bringing family and friends together around the table, where she was known for making what some considered the very best chicken and dumplings.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Opal Haynie; her sister, Glynda Mitchell; and her brother, Wendell Haynie.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Stephen Smith and wife, Tonya; her sister Nancy Phillips and husband Chris of Woodbridge, California; her brother, Thomas Haynie of Cleburne, Texas; her sister Melissa Lawson and husband, Ronnie of Temple, Texas; her brother Ricky Haynie and wife, Pam of Lampasas, Texas; her grandchildren, Jordan Smith and Sidney Walmsley; her great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Andrea "Sam" Samuel and her husband, James Samuel, Pam Dominick, Karen Patterson, and Stephanie Mitchell for the compassion and care they showed Gaynell, and for the many ways they supported and checked on her throughout the years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Animals Have Hearts Too in Lorena, Texas, in honor of Gaynell's lifelong love for animals.