June 18, 1930 ~ February 20, 2023
Vida Rae Smith, age 92, passed away February 20, 2023 in Denham Springs, LA. She was a native of Denham Springs, an LSU graduate, and a lifelong resident of DeRidder, LA. She taught school there for 30 years, retired, and had a successful real estate career. She held an active real estate license until she was 89 years old. She dearly loved her church, the First Baptist Church of DeRidder, and actively participated in its activities. Especially dear to her heart was the Living Christmas Tree Production, faithfully inviting friends and family to attend. Vida enjoyed traveling, shopping, bowling, playing cards, dominos, and cheering on the LSU Tigers.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Erma Tate Holden and Odiss Holden of Denham Springs, her father Rudolph Smith, and her sister Gesna Murray of Livingston, LA. She is survived by her sister Erma Lynne Satcher, her nephew Trase Satcher, her nieces Paige Satcher and Lane Doiron all of Denham Springs. She is also survived by her niece Sharon Cutrer of Livingston, LA.
Graveside services will be Friday, February 24, 2023 at 11:00 at the Denham Springs Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in her name to the First Baptist Church of DeRidder, LA.
5 comments
Shenetta Wright
March 7, 2023 at 9:05 pm
To the family: It was my pleasure to work with Mrs.Vida at Golden Age and also at Harvest Manor Nursing Home during her stay at both facilities she will be miss.
Susan Wagley Batson
February 24, 2023 at 3:23 am
She was a terrific teacher! I remember running to the tree and up and down bleachers! Hated it but was good for us…we should have kept up! God bless the family. She will always hold a special place in the hearts of DHS alimnae.
Janet Gilpin
February 23, 2023 at 9:46 pm
Coach Smith held me to a high standard in high school which made me a better person. She and my mom were friends and bowling buddies. She became my friend after graduation. She touched so many lives. ❤️
Karen Gormley Cunningham
February 23, 2023 at 1:49 am
My deepest condolences. I dearly loved Ms Vida Rae and have many, many fond memories of her and stories from the time I was four years old. She was loved and respected by my family and scores of students, educators, and business associates…a truely brave and independent soul.
Doris Bass
February 22, 2023 at 11:47 pm
Vida Rae you touched so many lives at DHS. I enjoyed being a student and later your bowling friend. You will be missed by so many. Thank you for being my teacher and friend. I enjoyed my last visit at the rehab with you. We laughed and talked about so many people and things from DHS days. Prayers for your family.