Mrs. Veralee Smith

June 13, 1956 - October 15, 2017

Mrs. Veralee Smith, 61, of Peoria, IL transitioned to her heavenly home at 9:23 am on Sunday, October 15, 2017 at Unity Point Health Methodist Hospital. Veralee was born on June 13, 1956 in Alton, IL to Maryella (Gray) and Irvin Wallace Riddlespriger. Veralee’s lifelong appreciation for educated began in the Alton, IL public school system. She moved to Peoria where she began working with Peoria District 150 as an office assistant. It was then she tirelessly began her pursuit of higher education. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Bradley University in 1992, later receiving her Master’s Degree in Education from St. Xavier University in Chicago. Her passion for education and helping children led her to become an educator and later an administrator for District 150 schools for over 25 years. Veralee had a zest for life and enjoyed helping others especially children. She had a passion for traveling, crocheting and dancing. She loved her family and spoiling her grandchildren. She had a beautiful smile that was a window to her soul. Everyone adored her. She accepted Christ at an early age and was a faithful member of Higher Dimensions Praise and Worship Church where she was church administrator. Veralee was also a proud member of the Peoria Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., for over 22 years. Veralee leaves to cherish her most precious memories her loving and devoted husband of 19 years, Wardine Smith of Peoria; her father, Irvin W. Riddlespriger, Sr., of Alton, IL; one son, Tecumshea Stanley Holmes, II of Hollywood, CA; four daughters, LaQuandrea Q. Smith of Dallas, TX, Tagwana D. ( & Minister Harreld, Jr.) Webster, Andrea Q. (Wesley Weatherspoon) Smith and Brittaney R. Smith all of Peoria; four brothers, Irving (Diane) Riddlespriger, Jr., of Godfrey, IL, Ray Riddlespriger of Alton, IL, Danny (Antoinette) Riddlespriger of Killeen, TX and Joe (Debbie) Riddlespriger of Alton, IL; one sister, Ella Louise Mills of Alton, IL; six grandchildren, Madisen, Macy, Harreld, III, Kingston, Kyson and Kamari and one grandson on the way; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who truly adored Veralee. She is preceded in death by her mother, Maryella Riddlespriger and grandparents, Clarence and Mary Gray. Funeral services will be held at 10 am on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at New Cornerstone Baptist Church with a visitation two hours prior beginning at 8 am. The Peoria Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., will render the Omega Omega Service beginning at 8 am. Host Pastor Rev. Dr. Mark A. McConnell. Minister Harreld Webster, Jr., will bring the eulogy and Rev. R. W. Randle, Pastor of Higher Dimensions Praise and Worship will officiate. Veralee will be laid to rest at Swan Lake Memory Gardens. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com.