SMITH

Vivian Pansy (Perry) Smith, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2026, in London Health and Rehabilitation, at the age of 83.

Born on October 23, 1942, in Madison County, Vivian was a truly strong and self-reliant woman with a “do-it-herself” attitude who lived life on her own terms. She had a wonderful, fiery spirit and personality overflowing with character. There was never a question of her opinion, you always knew where you stood with her, but more importantly, you always knew you were cared for.

Throughout her life, Vivian poured her passion into serving others. She began her working years in nursing, caring for patients with compassion, before transitioning into her primary calling as a cook. She then spent years nourishing people with her food and warm hospitality, eventually concluding her career at Jefferson Industries Corporation (JIC).

Beyond her career, Vivian’s heart belonged to two things: animals and her family. A lifelong animal lover, she opened her home and heart to a colorful variety of creatures over the years – including pigs, turkeys, chickens, and even a few cheeky raccoons! But above all, her beloved dogs held the absolute ultimate soft spot in her heart.

Above everything else, family was always her #1. Vivian was determined to raise a strong, capable family, making sure to teach them everything she knew so they would be completely self-sufficient in life.

Despite any hardship or challenge she faced, Vivian remained utterly selfless. She was the kind of person who would give her last penny to help someone else, happily doing without so that others wouldn’t have to. Her door was always open to anyone in need, particularly children who needed a safe, warm, and loving home to land in.

Vivian leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her fiery humor, her practical wisdom, and her infinite capacity for love. She taught us how to be strong, how to stand on our own two feet, and how to open our hearts to the world.

Survivors include her adoring sons: Charlie (Della) Colegrove, Donald Perry, and Danny (Gretchen) Devoe; grandchildren: Sara Colegrove, Jamie (Scott) Litteral, Chyene Colegrove, DJ Devoe, Shannon Devoe, and Deven Devoe; 13 great-grandchildren; sister Jean Meredith, brother Fred (Janice) Perry; a host a nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Clellia Tobe Perry and Pansy (Owens) Perry; beloved husbands Charles Colegrove and Gilmer Smith; granddaughter Jennifer Travis, grandson Christopher Colegrove; siblings: Lois Ann Dunson, Evelyn Giddens, Jim Randall Perry, Lorene “Rene” Perry, Herbert Clellia Perry, Cleatis Ray Perry, John Edward Perry, and Curtis Perry.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM in the EBERLE-FISHER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, 103 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140. Funeral services will commence at 1:00 PM with Pastor Gaye Gossard officiating. Interment will follow in Paint Memorial Cemetery.

Memorials in Vivian’s name may be sent to benefit the Madison County Humane Society, 2020 State Route 142 NE, West Jefferson, Ohio 43162, or to an animal rescue of your choice.

Condolences for the family are encouraged to be shared online at www.eberlefisherfuneralhome.com.