Tributes

Rebecca Diane Bernard Smith Rebecca Smith passed from this world to be with the Lord on December 8, 2010. Born in Altus, Oklahoma to George and Georgia Lou Bernard, she grew up and spent most of her life in San Antonio. She graduated from Highlands High School, attended Abilene Christian University and earned a Master's degree in Speech and Hearing Therapy from Southwest Texas State University. She taught third grade at Regency Place and Redland Oaks Elementary schools in the Northeast Independent School District for many years before retiring. As a teacher, she was superlative, receiving numerous nominations and recognition as "Teacher of the Year." Her classroom was a favored place, not only because of the assurance of successful learning experiences, but also because she furnished it in a special way. Rebecca was inspired to create an old school atmosphere due in large part to an old photo of her Grandmother on horseback riding to the one room schoolhouse in Iowa where she was the only teacher. Rebecca made learning very interesting by recreating that old one-room school house look with furniture, books, and all manner of old educational items. So, each student had their own antique school desk and were anxious to see what fun learning activity Mrs. Smith had planned for them each day. Students quickly realized that this was a very special teacher. The annual Christmas parties at the Smith's home were fun times for the students and their families and provided great memories for all. Rebecca loved the outdoors. Camping with family and friends was a regular activity. Pulling the trailer through all 48 of the lower US, and up to Alaska provided the family with many enjoyable times and fond memories. She also loved antiquing and she was out almost every weekend, Spring Break, and Summer vacation searching for items from the past. In 1999, a long battle with cancer began. She continued to teach for several years, showing miraculous determination and courage. However, always aware of and considerate of the students' feelings, Rebecca decided to retire from teaching rather than become a distraction or a worry to the youngsters. Teaching was her passion. She was a devoted, extraordinary educator, an incredibly brave and courageous lady meeting the challenges presented by the cancer head on, and never giving up. She overcame overwhelming odds with a remarkable resolve. A devout Christian, she fought through several daunting circumstances with an unwavering faith and conviction that God was in control and that He would always be with her. Her faith was deep and undeniable. It was visible throughout her life. To all who knew her, she was an incredible example of goodness. Rebecca was a wonderful, loving wife, mother, grandmotherGrammy, sister, and friend. Her influence will continue to be felt for years to come. Her warm, beautiful smile, with the most gorgeous blue eyes ever, will be missed. But, the Christian spirit she exuded will live on for a great while. Rebecca was preceded in death by her parents, George and Georgia Lou Bernard. She is survived by her loving family--Bobby, husband of 46 years, son Troy and his wife Amanda, their children Garrison, Ryan, and Emma; son Ty and his wife Shannon and their son Everson; sister Suzanne Mullen Scott; sister M'Liss TeterWinton; brother-in-law Denny Nancy; and sister-in-law Sherry; numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of loving friends. The family would like to extend a heartfelt "Thanks" to Dr. Sharon Wilks, Dr. Azreena Thomas, and Dr. Larry Baros for the very special care they provided Rebecca through some difficult years. Also, a very special "Thanks" to nurses Jennifer McLain, Victoria Barboa, Deanne Wilkie, and Joyce Gardner for their very comforting and sensitive handling of Rebecca's needs. And to all of the staff at VistaCare and Compassus Hospice groups, the family deeply appreciates your service. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to your favorite charity. Visitation will begin on Friday, December 10, 2010 from 6:00 P.M. 9:00 P.M. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 1:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at San Jose Burial Park. For personal acknowledgement you may sign the guest book at www.missionparks.com in the obituary section.

Tributes

Rebecca D. Smith

November 18, 1944 - December 8, 2010