Eileen Evelyn Smith, 84, of Ashland, entered into eternal rest on Monday, June 6, 2022, at Oxbow Living Center in Ashland. She was born Dec. 28, 1937, in Blair, to Rudolph and Gladys (Johnsen) Matzen. Eileen graduated from Blair High School in 1956. In March 1973, Eileen and husband Bill moved the family from the Omaha Keystone neighborhood to Ashland.
Through the years, Eileen worked for Purex Soap Factory, JC Penny’s at Westroads, Copper Plate, and Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools. She was a dedicated custodian and school bus driver for 27 years, and the biggest A-G Bluejay fan. Eileen loved supporting her family at their activities and events. She also enjoyed completing puzzles, watching stock car races or Wheel of Fortune, reading the paper, sewing, and listening to music.
She is survived by her children, Ginger (Bob) Rist of Ashland, Debra Sillman of Ashland, Theresa (Tony) Davison of Greenwood, Michael Smith of Ashland, Patrick Smith of Lincoln, Daniel (Julie) Smith of Ashland, Rudy (Becky) Smith of Bartlett, and James (Jamie) Smith of Lincoln; 17 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren; sisters, Janice Lambrecht, Marian (Clifford) Ward and Linda (Clark) Johnson; many other family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by great-grandson, Sebastian Ward; parents, Rudolph and Gladys Matzen; son-in-law, Rick Sillman; brother-in-law, Kenneth Lambrecht.
Funeral Service was Saturday June 11, 2022, 10:30 a.m. at First Christian Church, 1702 Boyd St., Ashland. Officiant, Pastor Bob Schofield Visitation was Friday, 5 to 7 p.m. at First Christian Church.
Interment at Ashland Cemetery, Ashland.
Memorials in care of the family for future designation.
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