Beverly A. Smith

Beverly Ann Smith, 87, born on June 30, 1938, in Salina, Kansas, passed away peacefully at her family farm outside of Chapman, KS on May 4, 2026. She lived a life marked by dedication both to her family and career, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and kindness.

Beverly graduated from Culver High School, Culver, KS Class of 1956. She continued her education at Marymount College in Salina, KS, studying nursing.

Beverly was a member of the Elks Lodge since 2019 serving multiple years on the scholarship committee. She so enjoyed reviewing the submitted essays each year.

Beverly began her professional journey at the Salina Kansas Police Department, where she met her beloved husband, Jerry. The couple was united in marriage on December 3, 1960, sharing 57 years of love and companionship until his death in 2017. Following her service with the Salina Police Department they moved to Junction City where she started a career with Dillons and retired after 14 + years. She then came out of retirement to devote 23 years to Loan Administration at Central National Bank retiring in 2018.

When she wasn’t working, Beverly devoted her time to the things she loved most. She was an avid bowler, proudly winning the Grand Duchess Bowling Tournament at the age of 78—a true reflection of her competitive spirit and joy for life. She also found great happiness in gardening, where her ability to nurture plants created beautiful, admired spaces, and she took pride in canning vegetables from her own garden, sharing that abundance with those she loved.

Beverly was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Junction City, KS. She also frequently could be found attending Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church in Chapman, KS.

Beverly is survived by her cherished children—Tammi (Robert) Rinkenbaugh Wichita, KS, Tina (Steve) Barker Junction City, KS, and K.C. (Barbara) Smith Manhattan, KS, who carry forward her values and love. She was blessed with nine grandchildren; Amanda Rinkenbaugh Houston, TX, Hannah (Sam) Melendez Wichita, KS, Abby Rinkenbaugh Wichita, KS, Seth Rinkenbaugh Overland Park, KS, Brett (Sarah) Barker Manhattan, KS, Clint (Cheyenne Hodgen) Barker Irvine, CA, her bonus granddaughter Amanda (Mike) Mancuso Hays, KS, Talor Smith Manhattan, KS, Jarett Smith Manhattan, KS, and Josh Smith Independence, KS; along with seven great-grandchildren, all of whom experienced the warmth of her care and guidance. She also leaves behind her brother, Walton (Linda) Kernohan Springfield, MO as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and her labradoodle Kody and donkey Leween.

Beverly was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jerry, her father Frederic Kernohan and her mother and stepfather Thayla (Woody) Rosebrook and Oscar, and her half siblings, Jim Rosebrook and Margaret Robins.

Beverly's life was one of heartfelt relationships, and joyous pursuits. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her. Her memory remains a blessing to her family and friends.

Visitation will be Monday, May 11, 2026, at St. Xavier Catholic Church from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm, praying of the rosary will immediately follow the visitation.

Mass of Christian Burial with cremated remains celebrating Beverly's faith- filled life will be celebrated Tuesday, May 12th, at 10 am at the church with Fr. Peter O'Donnell officiating. Inurnment will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions have been designated to St. Xavier Catholic Church, 218 N. Washington Street, Junction City, KS 66441 and/or St. Michael Catholic Church, 210 E. 6th Street, Chapman, KS 67431.