Diana L. Smith

LANCASTER – Diana L. Smith, age 79, of Lancaster formerly of Hemingford, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, Lancaster. She was born on February 17, 1947, in Casper, Wyoming, the daughter of Luther and Ethel (Hollis) Davis. Diana graduated from Natrona County High School in 1965 and furthered her education at Casper Junior College. Diana met Gordon W. Smith in November 1974, and three weeks later they were married at her parents’ home in Casper, WY. She relocated to Colorado where they blended their families and she was employed at Coors Brewing Company. After their retirement in 1995, she and Gordon moved to Hemingford, Nebraska. Due to health reasons, Diana moved to Orchard Manor Nursing Home in February, 2026. Diana enjoyed traveling with Gordon and they visited almost every state in the United States. She loved music and singing and was a member of various choirs. Diana will be remembered for her cheerful demeaner and her caring nature.

Survivors include her children: Kathy Nelson, Lancaster, WI; Dan Smith, Myrtle Beach, SC; Johnny Smith, Lancaster, WI; Monty Smith, Eagle Mountain, UT; Lynn Smulders, Denver, CO; Doug Smith, Prairie du Chien, WI; ten grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren; her sister Kathy who is in a nursing home.

In addition to her parents, Diana was preceded in death by her loving husband, Gordon in 2018; her son, Dennis in 2020, granddaughter Carter in 2020; and her brothers, Kenny and Larry Davis.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Orchard Manor Nursing Home Chapel with Rick McDermott officiating. Family and friends may visit on Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the nursing home. Graveside services will take place at Hemingford Cemetery, Hemingford, NE, at a later date. Kramer-Grau Funeral Homes & Crematory in Lancaster is entrusted with her care. Bates-Gould Funeral Home in Alliance, NE is assisting the family.