Obituaries for August 27, 2026
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Bertha A. Smith
GALLUP – Funeral services for Bertha A. Smith, 83, of Sanders, Arizona, will be held Friday, Sept. 4, at 10 a.m., at the Rollie Mortuary Chapel in Gallup, with Pastor Daniel Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at the new Houck community cemetery in Houck, Arizona.
Bertha A. Smith, March 15, 1943 – Aug. 3, 2026
Bertha was born March 15, 1943, in rural Ganado, Arizona, into the Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Tótsohnii (Big Water Clan). She passed away Aug. 3, 2026, in Sanders.
Bertha attended Snowflake High School, Northern Pioneer College, and Contra Costa College in San Pablo, California.
Bertha’s professional life will be remembered by many students over her 30-year career as a pleasant teacher’s assistant at the Sanders Unified School District. Many regarded her as their own grandmother, respected for her kindness, generosity, and a firm belief in teaching children to live their lives in the best manner possible.
Bertha loved family time more than anything and was an anchor in her family. Spending time with her grandchildren always brought her boundless joy and a true sense of accomplishment.
Bertha had many passions: family, friends, the ability to use her hands to create masterful quilts, her own wardrobe, as well as weaving beautiful Diné rugs. She also extended her abilities by taking classes in macramé, pottery, and woodworking.
Bertha was a devoted Christian, spending many hours of her free time absorbing the Lord’s Word, reading the Bible, attending church, and sharing her faith with all who surrounded her, in words and actions. She will be remembered for her steadfast belief in our Lord, Jesus Christ. She lived her faith openly, her unwavering devotion a true testament to a faithful Christian life.
Bertha is survived by her son, Vicente Smith; daughters, Bernice Robinson and Vi McDonnell; sister, Sarah Parton; and four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Bertha is preceded in death by her husband, Vincent C. Smith; brother, Notah Johnson; and parents, Kee Johnson and Myrtle Nez.
Pallbearers will be Vicente Smith, Armand Sanchez, Ian Sanchez, Joshua Martinez, Leroy Nelson, and Gentry Arthur.
Rollie Mortuary oversaw arrangements.
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