Deena Smith

Deena was born November 20th,1958 to Mary and Frank Soter in Auburn, California. She was the seventh of nine children to Mary Soter (later Mary Gray). Growing up through some transitions from California to Utah, ultimately, Utah was the place Deena called home. As a young vivacious woman she experienced a spirited life. Working in the pulse of Ogden City through the 70's - 80's, she had the pleasure of slangin' cocktails to patrons and friends alike at all the popular spots in the city. 

 

Deena had many great qualities that many envy as a person. She was witty, intelligent, honest, open-minded, funny, accepting of all types of folk, met and befriended many people in all walks of life. Her beauty, and charisma attracted those around her. At times she could be unabashedly unapologetic. Yet, her morals were pretty right-on. Many would say, "they needed to hear it", that she "called it the way she saw it", and that they "appreciated her for her honesty".   

 

As a young woman, Deena participated in various billiard leagues and golf teams. She loved both sports tremendously, and excelled at them throughout her life. Both were exciting hobbies that took her around the country competing. Once settled as a mother, She turned her attention to other hobbies. From freehand sketching, stained glass artwork, jewelry making, refurbishing antiques, and painting. Deena created one of a kind pieces that reflected her artistic talents. She loved spending time with her kids and grandchildren. Her spunky personality kept her young and funny with her closest family camping, attending concerts, playing laser tag, swimming, playing poker, visiting museums, anything to spend as much time with her grandsons as possible.  

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Deena had four children, Rainee and Zack, to whom she dedicated her everything to, and her fur babies Isabel and Henry who were by her side until the end. She loved to love, show affection and provide a wonderfully supportive life to her kids. Motherhood motivated Deena to go back to school and earn an accounting degree. Her hard work and dedication earned her to score in the 98th percentile not just in Utah but in the nation! This motivated her to focus more on a business venture and eventually opening her own office supplies business. Her salesman's-ship and business was a great success. She afforded the ability to purchase homes, cars, vacations and live a fruitful life. Although she would say it was for her kids, her commitment to herself was the ingredient that got her out of a rough start in life to creating a self-sufficient single mother with the aid of little to no one except her own.   

 

Deena was the source of strength and perseverance in our family. She taught her kids how to be responsible, independent, honest, accountable, and to not have the moral backbone of a chocolate eclair. Deena was extremely well read, enjoyed politics and had quite a fondness for debating many current affairs. 

 

Deena is going to be missed terribly, especially by her children: Rainee (Aaron), Zack (Dannyra), her Grandsons: Sam, Quinton, and Corbin. despite a terminal disease, she was taken unexpectedly too early. Our lives will not be the same without our mother, Deena Marie, in our corner fighting for the right thing to do because it was the right thing to do. 

 

Per her request there will be no services. If you are inclined to send financial support to the family send all donations to a conservation organization or the kidney foundation.

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