Dates
Elvie Jo Smith, 87, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Jo, the eldest of nine children. was born to Belva and Woodrow Rainwater on August 3, 1938, in Eola, Texas. A graduate of Eola High School, Jo went on to earn her nursing degree in 1978. She worked as an LVN for over thirty years before retiring. Jo was an avid reader and a Star Trek fan. She loved teddy bears and also had a large collection of VHS movies, which she enjoyed.
Jo married Rance Obenchain and they had one son, Charles Wayne, before they divorced. She later met and married James Smith in 1965. They moved to Eden, Texas, where they had three more children: David James, Rickey Joe, and Laurie Ann.
Jo was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Billy Rainwater, Jimmy Rainwater, Larry Rainwater, Jackie Rainwater, and sister, Janie Crabtree; husband, James Smith; and sons David James and Rickey Joe Smith.
Jo is survived by son Charles Obenchain, daughter Laurie Hayes, and daughter-in-law, Mandi Smith; grandchildren Merenda Obenchain; James Obenchain (Katherine); Frankie Hutchings (Brittney); Brittni Borja (Marcial); Leandra Hunter (Michael); Alexis Luther (Steven); David Hutchings (Jessica); Chanelle Smith; Donna Smith; and Becky Smith; thirty great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson on the way, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Flowers and cards can be sent to Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, Texas. Viewing will be at Harper Funeral Home, from 12:00pm - 7:00pm, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, October 22, at 11:00am at Eden Cemetery, in Eden, Texas.