Emily Ruth (Dudley) Smith, passed from this earthly life on January 15, 2026, at her home, at the age of 36.

Emily was born February 2, 1989 in Springfield, Missouri to Michael and Kathy Dudley of Niangua. She graduated from Niangua High School in 2007, where she was active in several sports and clubs. In 2013, Emily was married to Jason Smith; though they would later separate, she continued to move through life with resilience and heart.

Emily was the kind of person you didn’t meet but experienced. Whether you knew her personally, professionally or just in passing, you knew her by her infectious laugh. It was a laugh that filled the room and made everyone feel like they were taking part.

Her heart for others was evident with her work with the Springfield Dream Center, participating in the Young Professional Advisory Council and 417 Professionals. Emily had a gift for bringing people together. As an Event Coordinator she was incredibly good at her job, handling every detail with a skill of making difficult things look easy. For Emily, it wasn’t just about the job, it was about people. She rarely met a stranger and was quick to offer help, whether it was professional or personal.

Emily was a devoted aunt who adored her nieces and nephews, and her love didn’t stop with just family. She was an “aunt” to the children of her friends, treating them with the same warmth and kiss on the cheek, lipstick and all! At home she found comfort with her cat Herman.

When she wasn’t working, out with friends or home cuddling with Herman, Emily may be found at a ball game! Emily was an avid sports fan, whether it was a Cardinals game, accepting a game ball or sitting in the cold to watch football.

Emily lived a life that was bright, kind and full of spirit. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former colleagues and anyone who knew her.

Emily Ruth (Dudley) Smith is survived by Herman (the cat) of the home, her parents Michael and Kathy Dudley, siblings Seth Dudley, Alexandria Shockley (Brad) and devoted friend Candy Roller, her nephews Ryan and John Dudley, nieces Skyler Dudley, Adriel and Berea Shockley, her former husband Jason Smith and his parents Edward and Pam Gwin, and David and Bev Smith and many more family and friends.

Emily is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Paul and Katherine Dudley and her maternal grandparents Robert and Rebecca Kay and Donald Wayne Dill.