Smith, Lucy Leatrice Unstoppable. It's the characteristic that best defines Lucy Leatrice Smith. Even in her last weeks, she fought valiantly to cling to life. Lea was born on Sept. 15, 1920, to Wilmer Wendell Moss and Flora Frances Lily Crowe in Belles, Tenn. The second of three children, she arrived in Phoenix in the 1940's, where she met Howard K. Smith. The two were married in 1948. Lea supported Howard in earning a doctorate while raising eight children. Though money was often scarce, their summers in the White Mountains and magical Christmases provide rich memories. A strong advocate for her children's education, she served as PTA president and showed appreciation for teachers through frequent gifts and treats. She also held many leadership positions at church. Among her happiest moments, her family was sealed in the LDS Temple in Mesa in 1965. Every one of her grandchildren was her "favorite." Among the ways she expressed her love, she always selected the perfect birthday card for each family member - practically a full-time job, but her commitment never waned. Serving on the board of the Phoenix Honors Cotillion for 30 years was one way she taught her children the importance of service ? a lesson they learned well. In her last weeks of life, her family stood sentry at her bedside, loving and serving her. Lea passed away peacefully on Oct. 28. Lea is survived by 41 great grandchildren (and counting!), 51 grandchildren, and six children: Diane Asay (Bruce), Cheryl Smith (Doug), Kendra West (Kim), Michele Watkins (Ralph), Pamela Shawkey (Christopher) and Kimberly Squire (Michael). Her husband passed away in 2007, and sons, Mario Rubinelli and Michael Smith, died before their mother (we can only imagine the celebration that took place when they were reunited in heaven). A memorial service will take place at 11 AM on Nov. 6 at the LDS Church at 47 E. Ashland Ave. in Phoenix, followed by a graveside service at Resthaven/Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens at 4310 E. Southern Ave, Phoenix.