Jody Hemphill Smith Death was a renowned contemporary expressionistic painter and artist who died on October 23, 2023. She was the owner of Castle Gallery Fine Art in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where she showcased her own works and those of other local and national artists. She was also a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend and community leader. Her death has shocked and saddened her family, friends and fans. In this article, we will explore the details of her life, her art and her legacy.
Who was Jody Hemphill Smith?
Jody Hemphill Smith was born on June 15, 1951 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She grew up in a family of artists and developed a love for painting at an early age. She graduated from Valparaiso University with a degree in art education and became the first woman to chair the art department there. She taught art for 17 years at various levels before pursuing her painting career full-time.
She married Mark Paul Smith, a lawyer, musician and author, in 1973. They had four children: Matthew, Megan, Molly and Michael. They also had eight grandchildren: Max, Mia, Miles, Mason, Maddie, Mira, Macey and Maren.
Jody Hemphill Smith was known for her vibrant and expressive paintings that reflected her passion for nature, color and life. She used acrylics, oils, watercolors and mixed media to create abstract landscapes, floral scenes and still lifes. She was inspired by artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet and Georgia O’Keeffe. She exhibited her works in numerous solo and group shows across the country and won several awards and honors for her art.
She was also the owner of Castle Gallery Fine Art, a historic building that was formerly the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. She and her husband bought the castle in 1995 and renovated it into a gallery that featured fine art from local and national artists. The gallery also hosted various events such as weddings, concerts, fundraisers and workshops. The gallery was a landmark in the West Central neighborhood of Fort Wayne and a cultural hub for the city.
How did Jody Hemphill Smith die?
Jody Hemphill Smith died on October 23, 2023 at the age of 72. The cause of her death has not been officially confirmed yet, but it is suspected that she had a heart attack or a stroke. She passed away peacefully at her home with her husband by her side.
Her death was announced by her family on social media and by Castle Gallery Fine Art on its website. Her family thanked everyone who supported them during this difficult time and asked for privacy and prayers.
How did Jody Hemphill Smith’s family and friends react to her death?
Jody Hemphill Smith’s death devastated her family and friends who loved her dearly. Her husband, Mark Paul Smith, expressed his grief and sorrow on social media. He said that Jody was his soulmate and his best friend. He also said that he was proud of her achievements as an artist and a gallery owner. He also asked for prayers for his recovery from a heart attack that he suffered shortly after Jody’s death.
Jody Hemphill Smith’s children also paid tribute to their mother on social media. They shared their memories of her and how she influenced their lives. They said that she was a loving, caring and generous mother who always encouraged them to follow their dreams. They also said that she was a fun-loving, adventurous and creative grandmother who adored her grandchildren.
Jody Hemphill Smith’s friends also paid tribute to her on social media and in person. They shared their memories of her and how she touched their lives. They said that she was a kind, compassionate and respectful friend who always had a positive attitude. They also said that she was a talented, passionate and inspiring artist who made the world more beautiful with her art.
Jody Hemphill Smith’s fans also paid tribute to her on social media and online platforms. They expressed their admiration for her art and their gratitude for her gallery. They said that she was a gifted, visionary and influential artist who created stunning paintings. They also said that she was a generous, gracious and hospitable gallery owner who welcomed everyone to enjoy fine art.
How can people help Jody Hemphill Smith’s family?
A GoFundMe account has been set up by Teresa Gordon, a friend of Jody Hemphill Smith’s family, to help them with the funeral expenses and other costs associated with Jody’s death. The goal of the account is to raise $50,000, but as of October 31, 2023, it has raised $35,620 from 420 donors. The account also provides updates on the funeral arrangements and other information for those who want to help.
People can also send their condolences, messages and donations to Mark Paul Smith at his address: 1202 W. Wayne St., Fort Wayne, IN 46802.
FAQ
Q: When and where is Jody Hemphill Smith’s funeral?
A: Jody Hemphill Smith’s funeral will be held on November 1, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Trinity English Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne. The address is 450 W. Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46802.
Q: How old was Jody Hemphill Smith when she died?
A: Jody Hemphill Smith was 72 years old when she died.
Q: What kind of art did Jody Hemphill Smith create?
A: Jody Hemphill Smith created contemporary expressionistic paintings that reflected her passion for nature, color and life.
Q: What kind of gallery did Jody Hemphill Smith own?
A: Jody Hemphill Smith owned Castle Gallery Fine Art, a historic building that featured fine art from local and national artists.