Kristi Smith Obituary

Kristi Kay Welty Smith

Kristi Kay Welty Smith, 71, of Risingsun, joined her loving parents and grandparents in their heavenly home Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023.

She was born Feb. 14, 1951, to Jack L. and Verneda ("Peggy" Barlekamp) Welty. She married Marvin J. Smith on Sept. 17, 1977, at Prout Chapel on the campus of Bowling Green State University and he survives.

Her parents and the wonderful teachers at Risingsun Elementary School instilled in her a lifelong love of reading and learning. She graduated with honors from Lakota High School in 1969 and from Bowling Green State University in 1972. Upon completion of her degree in Library Science, Kristi joined the staff of Kaubisch Memorial Public Library, Fostoria. During her 31-year tenure, she served as Head of Circulation, Associate Director, and Co-Director.

Kristi was also very active in many organizations including Fostoria Business and Professional Women (President), Fostoria AAUW (Secretary), Fostoria Literacy Council (Secretary, Treasurer), Risingsun Area Historical Society (Secretary, President), and Fostoria Hospital Auxiliary (President) to name a few. Current memberships included Wood County Historical Society, Wood County Chapter of PERI, Fostoria Historical Society, Fostoria Arts Council, and Wood County Hospital Guild. She also enjoyed reading, gardening, crossword puzzles, needlepoint, and playing cards, Bunco, and board games with her friends.

In addition to her wonderful husband of 45 years, she is survived by the best brother in the world, Michael J. Welty of Risingsun; stepdaughters, Elora Kibler of Fresno, Texas, and Cheryl (Donald) Waltermier of Fostoria; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; many dear friends; and several "adopted" children including Diane and the J-Crew, Anne, Al, and Jennifer who were very close to her heart.

Kristi was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Larry L. Welty; and beloved schnauzer, Muffy.

Per Kristi's wishes, there will be no services. Burial has taken place at Bradner Cemetery with Barndt Funeral Home, Wayne, handling arrangements.

In lieu of memorials, Kristi asks that her many friends remember her by giving a smile to a stranger to brighten their day.

Online condolences can be sent to Kristi's family at www.barndtfuneralhome.org.