Kathleen M. Smoker

Kathleen M. Smoker, 99, passed away peacefully at her home in Lebanon on Nov 23 with her daughter, Barbara, and son, David, by her side. Born in Wellingborough, England, Kathleen Farrow met her American husband, 1st Lt Frank H Smoker, Jr, at a Red Cross Club where she volunteered during WW II. Frank (Bud) was stationed at the nearby Podington base, serving as a B-17 navigator in the 8th Air Force. They were married in December 1945 and spent 65 years together until her husband, then Maj Gen Frank Smoker, passed away in 2010. Kathleen and her family lived at Ft Indiantown Gap from 1953 to 1985 when her husband retired and they relocated to Lebanon. During the time at the Gap, she led the Sunday School at the Post Chapel where the family worshipped for 67 years, coordinated Youth Fellowship, served as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, volunteered at the VA hospital, and hosted Fresh Air Children for many summers in her home. Over the years she welcomed many friends, relatives, and strangers into her home, which included many cups of tea. Kathleen is survived by her loving family - Barbara Harvey, David Smoker (Brenda), Dung and Loi Phung, Liem and Ha Truong; grandchildren Amanda Swarr (Tori), Jessica Ellinger (Chet), Manh Phung (Naomi), Thao Wesler (Jared), Tien Phung (Elizabeth); great grandchildren Nathan (Ally), Andrew (Jensen), Gabriel, Evan, Tyler, Landon, Colin, Allie, Jalynn, Ella, Elena, Alexandria, Quinn, and Enli. In England she is survived by nephews Michael, Richard, and Jamie Farrow and their families, as well as cousins Albert, David, and Kathryn Farrow and their families. Kathleen’s family is extremely grateful to Wellspan Hospice for continuing care and love, especially Sarah, Pat, Journey, and Maria. Also very much appreciated is the support of all other nurses & volunteers. In lieu of flowers, as was Kahleen’s wish, donations may be sent to the Pennsylvania National Guard Military Museum, founded by her husband in 1985. The non-profit museum portrays the accomplishments and sacrifices of Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers and airmen. Donations may be sent to: PNGMMA, Bldg. 8-57, FTIG, Annville, PA 17003. Kathleen’s funeral service will be at the Fort Indiantown Gap Post Chapel at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 23rd, 2024. Interment will follow at the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. Please note that Fort Indiantown Gap is now gated with entry on Route 934 only. Attendees will need to show a valid driver’s license or picture identification upon entry at the gate. Be sure to tell the police at the gate that you are going to the Post Chapel to attend the funeral for Mrs. Kathleen Smoker.

Kathleen M. Smoker

July 2, 1925 - November 23, 2024