Vernie Lynn Smith, age 52, of Portage passed away Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at home surrounded by loved ones. She was born on March 19, 1969 in Valparaiso, Indiana to William and Hazel Taylor. Vernie was a kind soul. She will always be remembered as a loving and dependable mother, daughter, sister and friend.

She is survived by her sons, James Smith, Stephen (Sabrina) Smith Childress; her parents, William and Hazel Taylor; brother, Darrell Taylor; sister, Tammy Ashton; niece, Vanessa Ashton; nephew, Jordan Ashton.

She was preceded I n death by her beloved husband, Billy Lynn Childress.

A funeral service for Vernie will take place Thursday, April 15, 2021 at 7:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm until the time of service at the funeral home. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .