MASON CITY — Valerie “Val” Jean Smith, a Mason City woman remembered as a free spirit with a generous heart, died Friday, June 5, 2026, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center while surrounded by loved ones. She was 70.
A Celebration of Life is expected to be held in late July 2026, with details to be formally announced at a later date.
Valerie was born March 8, 1956, in Mason City. She spent her early working years doing home improvement work around the community, building a life marked by independence, grit and a love for simple freedoms.
Those who knew Valerie will remember her as someone who loved the feeling of wind on her face, whether she was riding on the back of a Harley or pedaling her bicycle through town. She also carried fond memories of her childhood horse, Feathers, and held a special love for the Arizona mountains.
Valerie’s family described her as authentic, generous and deeply connected to the people she loved. She adored her children, grandchildren, siblings and extended family, and took pride in every accomplishment in their lives, large or small.
Her generosity was part of who she was. Valerie was known as someone who would help others whenever she could, even if it meant giving what little she had.
Valerie resided at IOOF Home in Mason City, where she enjoyed activities and friendships. In quieter moments, she loved puzzles, bingo, music, listening to bands and attending sermons by Pastor Dave.
Her family, friends and those who cared for her will remember a woman who brought warmth, humor, kindness and a fierce sense of individuality into the lives around her.
Valerie is survived by her children, Brandi Smith, Aurora Smith and Dave Obregon; grandchildren, Jace Spear, Jaylah Obregon, Amarea Obregon, Deken Thompson, Nick Lizaola, Sienna Obregon, Sabrina Waring, Dakota Havig and Emma Havig; siblings, Vicky Davis and Victor “Dirk” Johnson; sister-in-law, Julie Johnson; nieces and nephews, Misty, Christopher, Nicky, Sara and Cody; and other great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hadley and Loretta “Dolly” Johnson; brother, Vern “Butch” Johnson; grandson, Devlin Obregon; brother-in-law, Alan Davis; great-nephew, Keegan Baumgartner; and her grandparents.
Memorials may be directed to Valerie’s family or to Northern Lights Alliance for the Homeless Shelters.
Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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