Nicole LeeAnn Smith, 39, died peacefully on May 14, 2023, in Lenexa, Kan. She was born in Great Bend, Kan. on June 9, 1983, to John Mark and Julie (Keil) Smith. 

A woman who could do anything and did everything, Nicole worked as a phlebotomist and massage therapist, along with many other roles. She had a brilliant mind and was a gifted photographer, writer and crafter. Her hobbies included laughing (it was contagious), reading books, poetry, writing, and spending time with friends and family. Nicole loved fireworks, flowers, Star Trek, all kinds of people and had learned to love life. She was loved by so many and will be forever missed.

Survivors include her mother, Julie (“Mister” Michael) Peterson; her children, John Isaac Peterson and Ivy Adaire Peterson; her partner during the last year of her life whom she loved dearly, James Johann; four sisters, Shannon Stephens, Tessa (Jacob) Fryberger, Melanie Peterson, and Kimberly Peterson; two brothers, Dal and Trenton Peterson; a grandmother, Donita Keil; three aunts, Joni (Brad) Wintholz, Jamie Keil and Anne Jambor; an uncle, Jeremy (Mandy) Keil; two nieces, Katelyn and Aliyah Fryberger; a nephew, Kade Fryberger; many cousins; and extended family through James: daughter, Olivia Johann; brother, Jason Johann; and sister, Carrie Beth Cunningham. She is preceded in death by her father, John Mark Smith; grandparents, Clarence and Betty Smith, and LeRoy Keil.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Memorial service will take place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home with Pastor Jack Sweany presiding. Memorials have been designated to the Nicole Smith Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS.  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 20, 2023