Jovita Smith

Jovita Smith, 54, transitioned from this life to the next on May 8, 2024 with loved ones surrounding her. She was welcomed into heaven by the Lord Jesus Christ and loved ones who have gone before her.

Jovita was born on December 24, 1969 in Hammond, Indiana to the late Jerry Curtis and Brenda Curtis.  As her father was a minister, Jovita lived in several states throughout her life.  

The literal meaning of her name means “God is Gracious” and she lived out that meaning on a daily basis.  Jovita was known for her gracious smile, sense of humor and the kindness she showed to others.  She loved and adored her family and consistently made them a priority in her life. She lived life to the fullest; drawing joy and pleasure from every moment. She cherished her grandsons, who knew there was nothing their Lolli wouldn’t do for them.

Jovita worked for years as a salesperson and her most recent position was as Director of Sales for Pinnacle Climate Technologies.  Her family would joke when she was in “sales mode” as she knew how to make connections with customers and suppliers. Her “sales laugh” was infectious.  She maintained relationships for decades and always made those around her feel special and valued. 

Jovita worked hard to have the best life and reaped the rewards of that hard work. She loved to travel and has been to all 50 states. She also loved the beach and frequently vacationed in Caribbean countries.  Her and Marty also travelled to Dubai, England, France and Belgium. To say she enjoyed shopping would be a world-class understatement. 

Those left to cherish her memory are, her husband, Marty Smith, her children, Whitney Smith of Jacksonville, FL, Haleigh McCauley (Joe) of Ragley, La, her mother, Brenda Curtis of Poplar Bluff, MO,   her brother, Jerry “Jed” Curtis (Cheryl) of Presque, Isle, ME, her sister, Shelly Barley (Dave) of Jonesboro, AR, her twin brother, John Curtis (Marcia) of Diggins, MO and her two incredible grandsons, Nolan McCauley and Warren McCauley. Preceding her in death; her father, Jerry Curtis.

The family would like to give special thanks to her neurologist, Dr John Rossi of Baylor Medical Center and hospice nurse Anne Marie, who provided treatment in a caring, compassionate manner and was a source of comfort and strength to her family.

Her funeral service will be held at First Pentecostal Church of Lake Charles on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10 a.m. Rev. Jeff Ralston will officiate. Burial will take place in New Ritchie Cemetery following the service. Visitation will take place at the church on Friday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and will continue at the church Saturday from 9 a.m. until the start of the service.

As an alternative to flowers, donations can be made to the  Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Foundation (CJD) at General Donations and donate in Jovita’s name,  if you prefer.