Smith departed, as she lived, with great dignity and elegance. She is survived by Jamey, Kristi and Ava Smith, the granddaughter she adored, of Joplin, Mo.; her parents, Jack and Hazel Gates of Joplin, Mo.; a sister, Cherrie Haerr of Joplin; and two brothers, Jodi Gates of Diamond, Mo. and Freddie Gates of Racine, Mo. She was a one-of-a-kind person of care who made a wonderful addition to Eureka Springs, the community she dearly loved. Smith began work as a waitperson at Mud St. Cafe in 1999 where patrons quickly became enamored of her hospitable spirit.

Her genuine care for others was characterized by dedicated service which began with a quick smile of engagement, followed by her authentic expression of interest in those she served. She imparted a sense of goodness which always left her clientele feeling good about their time together. Her enthusiasm for serving others was infectious and flowed over to her style of building friendships with customers and fellow employees alike.

In 2003, the Chamber of Commerce named Smith "Waitress of the Year" in honor of her endless contributions to the quality of life of those she touched. Those who knew Becky love her as much as she loved serving and creating an endless array of friends in Eureka Springs.

A memorial service was held on Oct. 9 at the Gospel Lighthouse in Neosho, Mo. with Sister Myrna Marble officiating. Memorial donations may be sent to Gospel Lighthouse, 2800 S. High St., Neosho, MO 64850.