Mercedes (Sue) Smith, fondly known as "Granny," passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, one day before her 88th birthday. She was born on April 14, 1938.

Sue married Raymond Smith in August 28, 1987, and together they shared many years of love, laughter, and adventure. They especially enjoyed traveling the backroads on scenic field trips, finding joy in the simple beauty of the countryside and in each other's company.

Granny treasured her time with family above all else, especially the time spent with her grandchildren. She is survived by her loving husband, Raymond Smith; her children Gary and Joan Lee of Cortland, Mark and Connie Lee of O'Fallon, MO, Johnnie and Shelley Smith of Chana, and Brenda Smith of Creston.

She was blessed with 13 grandchildren: Nick and Erin Lee, Jacob and Ericka Lee, Jenni and David Hensiek, Jared and Mackenzie Lee, Jonathan and Ellyse Lee, Katie Smith, Ella Smith, and Jackson Smith. Her legacy continues through 10 great-grandchildren, DJ and Amber Hensiek, Kevin Lee, Makayla Hensiek, June Lee, Cora Lee, Jeb Lee, Maverick Lee, Jayde Lee, and Oliver Lee, as well as two great-great-grandchildren, Adalyn and Everly Hensiek. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Special friends and neighbors, the Wheelers, also held a very special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, June and Jerry McDonald, as well as her sister Bev Hicks and brother-in-law Larry Hicks.

Sue worked at General Electric in DeKalb for 35 years, a testament to her dedication and strong work ethic. Outside of work, she was known for her incredible green thumb and generously shared her love of gardening with her family. She was also a professional at hanging clothes on the line year-round, no matter the season.

Granny delighted in teaching life skills to her grandchildren—whether it was cooking, cleaning wild game when Papa returned from hunting trips, or preparing meals with love and patience. She was an amazing cook and took great joy in passing those talents on. Her fun-loving spirit shone through in moments like allowing her grandsons to toss her off her pool raft—twice per day—laughing every time. She faithfully hosted Jenni's annual slumber parties, and the girls loved spending time at Papa and Granny's farm.

Sue's best friend since childhood was Donna Kay Smith, and she fondly told the story that they were the same age for only ten days. Granny loved country music and especially enjoyed watching her favorite programs on RFD-TV on Saturday nights.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Shelley, Katie, and Joan for their extraordinary care and kindness during her final days. Truly, they are angels.

Granny will be remembered for her warmth, humor, generosity, and the deep love she poured into her family. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched.

Her memorial visitation will be on Thursday, April 23rd from 3:00-7:00 PM at the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL.

There will be a private graveside at Mound Rest Cemetery in Cortland, IL.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com