Ethel “Mae” Smithey, 89, of Kansas City, formerly of Richmond, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 3, 2023. Mae was born on Oct. 17, 1933, in Camden to Albert and Sally (Cruse) Millsap. On Nov. 1, 1953, she was united in marriage to Billy Smithey. Together, they raised three children, Joe (Karen) Smithey of Richmond, Jackie Smithey of Richmond and John Lam of Kansas City.

Her husband preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 1999. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Tom Millsap, Bobby Millsap and Phillip Millsap; sister, Ruth Noland; and two sisters who died in infancy.

Mae was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a homemaker, later working at Price Candy Co. in Richmond.

She was a member of the Camden United Methodist Church and Ray County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, devoting her time to assisting in the gift shop. She had a great love for her family, friends, flowers and birds.

Survivors include her three children; brother, Albert Millsap; three grandchildren, Jennifer (Robert) Green, Missie (Aaron) Allred and Brogan Smithey; and eight great-grandchildren.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Ray County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8, in Richmond Memory Gardens. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Mae with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.