Vicki Lee Smith, 67, passed away on August 24, 2026, at home in Portage. She was born on September 23, 1958, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the youngest child of Duane and Mary Frances (“Frannie Ruth”) James.

Vicki spent much of her childhood exploring different parts of the country with her family and especially treasured vacations to Big Bend National Park in Texas. Her cousins also remember having the time of their lives hanging out together at Grandma Roger’s house on Denway Drive.

Vicki had a special love for dogs and shared an extraordinary bond with her soul dog, Scruffy, who preceded her in death in 2022. She was also preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Butch; her sister, Rose; and her niece, Jessica.

She is survived by her dear friend and cousin, Terri; her sister, Debra; her nephews, Damion and Kurtis; and her nieces, Monica and Rachel. She will also be deeply missed by her other cousins, extended family, friends, and co-workers at KRESA.

Vicki was kind, thoughtful, and so very loved.