Carol Smith's Obituary
Our beautiful mother, Carol Smith, passed away peacefully at age 90 on April 21, 2025 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. She was an amazing and loving mother to Suzi Coleman of Kaneohe, Barry Herr of Honolulu, and Gina Kier & partner Matt Kimura, of California. Our mom adored her grandchildren and was a devoted Tutu to Serena Fukushima and her husband Clinton, Joshua Kier, Lauren Kier, and great-tutu to Kiyoshi and Hope Fukushima. Suzi was at our mom’s side as she passed, Barry was able to have a last visit with her, as was Serena who flew over from Maui. Gina and Lauren had flown to Hawaii and had a memorable vacation with her just days before she fell ill. Joshua was in Hawaii with his Tutu to celebrate her 90th birthday only a few months ago.
Mom was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, where she met and married our dad, Ron Herr (3/1933- 5/2025.) It was Ron’s Air Force service that brought them to Hawaii. She always marveled at being able to live and raise her children in paradise for over 60 years. Even after divorcing, Mom and Dad remained life-long friends.
Mom was then married to Jim Smith until his passing in 2004.They were avid members of the Kaneohe Yacht Club, spending many days and nights on their boat “Kalola” out at the Sand Bar. It was mom’s wish to have her ashes scattered in Kaneohe Bay. Her family is following her wishes with private ceremonies.
Our mom made us feel cherished by her every day growing up. She was a fun and playful mom who worked really hard as a single mom to provide for all our needs. She was the real beauty of our family- on the outside and especially on the inside. She had a heart of gold, and everyone loved her. She found beauty in everyone she met and everywhere she went-as an artist, in nature, listening to opera, antique shopping, all animals, and she truly delighted in all of life. She took great pleasure in watching and reminiscing about all the great old classic movies and musicals that every family member watched with her over the years.
Rest in peace, Mom. There isn’t a day that will go by that we won’t think of you. We know you are finally reunited with your parents, your great grandson Kiyoshi, and all of your pets, and we hope that they have an icy cold Diet Coke waiting for you in heaven.
What’s your fondest memory of Carol?
What’s a lesson you learned from Carol?
Share a story where Carol's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Carol you’ll never forget.
How did Carol make you smile?