Oka M. Smotherman

Oka Marie Hayes Smotherman, 82, of Osawatomie, Kansas passed away March 14, 2020.

Oka was born September 1. 1937 in Kidder, Missouri to Charles McMurtrey and Estella Kay Bowers Hayes.  She was united in marriage to William Crawford Smotherman on June 4, 1956 in Olathe, KS.  This union was blessed with two children; Elizabeth Cruzan and Charles Smotherman.

Oka was a dietary cook at Hillsdale Elementary School before her retirement.  She was an American Legion Auxiliary Post member, Olathe, KS and a member of The Olathe Trail Riders of Olathe, KS.

She enjoyed gardening until her health no longer allowed and was an avid reader and loved painting ceramics.  Oka’s true enjoyment was spending time with her family.

Oka was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister and three brothers.

She is survived by her children; Elizabeth Cruzan, Paola, KS and Charles Smotherman (Barb), Birch Tree, MO.  Four grandchildren; KaCasy Smotherman, Kandas Gainer (Jake), Megan DeHaan (Daniel), Brent Cruzan (Becca), also eight great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held 1:00 pm, Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at Johnson County Memorial Gardens, 11200 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS  66210

“Mrs. Smotherman will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved her.”

“Momma made the best ever Brownies”