Louella “Lou” Smelker, 93, of Beaumont, died Sunday, March 1, 2015, at Harbor Hospice, Beaumont.  She was born on September 18 1921, in Port Arthur. She moved to Beaumont in 1941, where she married Ben Roy Smelker. 

The things most special in Lou’s life were her family, good friends, and her church.  She was a long time member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church where she served as an Altar Guild Member and parish secretary, from 1974 to 1995.  She enjoyed doing voluntary work with the Junior League of Beaumont for many years. 

She is survived by her daughter, Cindy Smelker, of Beaumont; nephew, Gene Shaw, of Nederland; niece, Gail Meaux, of Crystal Beach; as well as extended family.

Lou is preceded in death by her husband of forty-nine years, Ben Smelker.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Christus Hospital St. Elizabeth, Harbor Hospice, and her church family at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church.

She was a wonderful mother and a great friend to all who knew her.

A memorial service for Mrs. Smelker will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 4, 2015, at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 4090 Delaware Street, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 4090 Delaware, Beaumont, Texas 77706.