Clara “Dosey” Smith, revered as a mother, grandmother, and loyal friend, passed away on November 29, 2024. Born on February 23, 1944, Dosey was known for her Cajun gumbo, ice box pie, generosity, and the undeniable love and humor she brought into the world.
Dosey will be lovingly remembered by her first husband and friend, Harvey Depew of Groves, beloved children, Harvey Dean Depew of Nederland, Michael Ramon Depew, and wife, Jessica of Fannett. Dosey is survived by eight grandchildren: Crystal Annice Rains and husband Koby of Bridge City, Michael Dean Depew and fiancé Kearie Erwin of Groves, Timothy Ramon Depew and wife Tara of Port Neches, Amber Kristine Johnson and husband Aaron of Buna, Caleb Allen Depew, Jacob Anthony Depew, Benjamin Michael Depew, and Clover Lee Depew. She is survived by six great-grandchildren: Brendan Michael Thornell, Gavin Dean Depew, Jade Katharine Johnson, Blaire Adeline Johnson, Mary Emma Depew, and Lilian Blake Teacy Rains.
She is joined in rest by her mother, Annice Inez, her father, Leland, and her husband, Lewis, along with many other loved ones throughout her life. With a hefty family tree and a family consisting of both blood ties and bonds formed from the heart, Dosey’s reach was as far as it was wide, and she was cherished deeply by many. Among Dosey’s most significant accomplishments was raising her two sons, whom she held as her pride and joy. She served as a nurse for a considerable part of her life before retirement. Yet, even amidst the challenges life brought her way, Dosey never wavered in her love for her family. Her legacy is one of no-nonsense wisdom, hard work and generosity. Even when sick or in pain, she never faltered in calling to check on her sons and grandchildren. The end of her life served as a testament to her devotion to family, requesting to see everyone before she passed peacefully. She made us laugh in her final hours with her spunky one-liners and just enough irreverence to lighten the somber mood. "Don’t cry. Life goes on" she said to us as we wiped away tears.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 10 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life for Dosey at 11 a.m., at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas. A graveside service will follow at Oak Bluff Cemetery in Port Neches, Texas.
Those wishing to pay their respects and celebrate her life are welcome. Dosey’s loss is deeply felt by her immense family and all those who knew and loved her. Her memory will continue to live on and inspire strength, resilience, and generosity in those whose lives she touched.