December 25, 1927 – August 20, 2023
Alyce C. (Stradinger) Smith was born December 25, 1927, in Isabel. She frequently stated it made her happy to share her birthday with the most important person in the world.
She passed away August 20, 2023. Alyce moved to Rapid City in 1947 and attended Green’s Beauty College, graduating in 1948. She married Bert Smith, who was stationed at Ellsworth AFB, in 1948. They celebrated 67 years together, living in the same home the whole time.
Alyce worked at the Alex Johnson Hotel in several roles for many years and met a number of celebrities in the process. (Some she liked and some not as much.) Eventually her work turned to at-home childcare, which she did for more than 20 years.
Bert and Alyce had three daughters, Marcia, Michele, and Merita, and were involved supporters of their many activities. They were intentional in instructing them in the Christian faith and leading family devotions almost every night.
Alyce had a servant’s heart. She enjoyed baking, canning, and gardening – always wanting to share from her efforts. She also enjoyed riding horses, quilting, and sewing and made most of her daughters’ dresses until they were in their teens.
Alyce was active in her church for 68 years and participated in teaching children’s Sunday school, Joybells, funeral committee, ladies Bible study, church hospitality and outreach, and was captain of the prayer chain for 38 years and a church trustee. She also volunteered in the community, including working at the homeless shelter, and leading a Bible study for police officers’ wives. One of her favorite activities was playing dominoes with her friends, where she had an opportunity to display her competitive side. And unknown to many, she was quite musical and played the trumpet, guitar, harmonica and was a gifted but reluctant yodeler. She has been a special friend to many children throughout the years.
Alyce was preceded in death by her parents, August and Mary Stradinger, and her beloved husband, Bert.
She is survived by her three children: Marcia Olson of Minneapolis, MN, Michele Smith of Marietta, GA, and Merita (Steve) Colaw of St. Peters, MO; 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; her brother Paul Stradinger of Isabel and sister Mary Titsworth of Stockton, CA, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Alyce’s funeral was August 30 at First Wesleyan Church in Rapid City.
(Paul Stradinger’s address is 14468 223rd Ave, Isabel, SD 57633.)