Maria J. Smead, age 98, originally from Nancito, Panama, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – one week away from her 99th birthday.

Maria was born on January 14, 1927, in Nancito, Panama. She spent many cherished years living in the Panama Canal Zone while married and raising her family, a time in her life she spoke of fondly. She later graduated from beautician school and took great pride in her education and work ethic. Maria embraced new places and experiences with enthusiasm and curiosity and as a true world traveler visited many countries throughout the world. She was excited about being present for the launch of Apollo 11 at the Kennedy Space Center in 1969.

Family was the center of Maria’s life. She was especially proud that her family lineage was known for long, full lives, and she was blessed to be a great-great-grandmother. Those who knew her will remember her sharp wit, open heart and as a funny, warm and endlessly engaging person. Maria loved cooking and hosting gatherings, gardening, bowling, fishing, shopping, and making ceramics and other crafts for her family and friends. She was famous for spending long hours on the phone, happily chatting with family and friends. McDonald’s will miss Maria as she loved getting their chicken nuggets and fries. We will miss her saying that she did not like sweets, only to find empty or missing chocolate containers hidden away!

A devout Catholic, Maria was deeply involved in church organizations and was an active member of the Panama Canal Zone Ladies Club and the Panama Canal Society, where she built lasting friendships and made a meaningful impact in her community.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Howard Smead; her son, Robert Smead; a brother, Agustin and sisters, Rosa, Sixta, Cristobalina, Carlo and Servilia.

She is survived by her daughter, Helen Burns (Christopher); her son, Richard Smead (Patricia); grandchildren Angie Smead-Rodriguez (Dimas), Michael Martin (Elaine), Allen Smead (Sabina), Annette Black, and Sara Stucky (Lucas), along with numerous grand and great-great grandchildren and extended family throughout Panama and the United States who will cherish her memory.

A Visitation will be held on Friday, January 30th, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., with a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m.at Baldwin Brothers Brownwood, located at 3990 E. State Road 44, Wildwood, Florida 34785.