Opal Larue Smith

Opal LaRue Gibson Smith, 91, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 24, 2018, at Morningstar Senior Living in Idaho Falls, Idaho, just 24 days after her husband's passing. That separation was long enough. She literally died of a broken heart.

Opal was born on February 26, 1927 in Grace, Idaho to Lucy Doney Lowe and Harvey Gibson. The youngest of eleven children, Opal attended school in Grace, Idaho and graduated from Grace High School in 1946.

Opal and Frank were married on April 1, 1947. Their marriage was solemnized in the Logan, Utah LDS Temple on August 10, 1961. Frank and Opal were faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together, they raised two daughters and one son in Pocatello, Idaho.

In 1966, Opal began working for food services at Franklin Junior High. She retired in 1992 after 26 years of service.

After many years raising their children and welcoming grandchildren and great grandchildren into their family, Frank and Opal moved to Morningstar Senior Living in Idaho Falls in 2014. While there, Opal enjoyed an active lifestyle, socializing with friends and participating in group activities.

Opal loved many things in life. She loved to travel with Frank. She loved to create works of art with her hands, crocheting, knitting, quilting, embroidering, and making ceramics. She dedicated hours to knitting delicate baby booties and crocheting blankets. She loved to work in her garden, making things grow. She tenderly cared for her vegetables and flowers, first in her yard and later in a garden spot at Morningstar.

Most importantly, Opal loved Frank. From the very beginning, the two were inseparable. They supported each other in everything. It didn't matter whether they were tying quilts or cheering the Jazz on to victory, they did it together. Now they are together again to continue their love story eternally.

Opal is survived by her three children, Carolyn Kunze, Deer Park, Washington; Lorraine (Steve) Hiltbrand, Idaho Falls; Kevin (Ann) Smith, Pocatello; six grandchildren, and fourteen great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Franklin John Smith, son-in-law William Kunze, parents, two sisters, and eight brothers.

The family would like to express special thanks to the staff members of Morningstar and Encompass Hospice for the exceptional care they gave Opal and Frank. Their tender care of Opal after Frank's passing is especially appreciated.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W. Chubbuck Road. A viewing will be held 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services. Interment will follow services at the Whitney, Idaho Cemetery.