Candace Sue (Jackson) Smith, age 70, passed away peacefully at Birch Meadows, in Three Rivers, MI on Saturday January 17, 2026.

Born to Constance (Naylor) Jackson and Raymond Jackson on May 14, 1955, in Tecumseh, MI, she was the middle of three children and was close with both of her siblings. She was a graduate of the Tecumseh High School Class of 1973.

Candace was an avid reader, enjoyed playing cards with family, had a love for planting flowers around her home, and had a passion for quilting. Candace was a member of the Sassy Stitchers quilting group in Tecumseh and went to numerous quilting retreats with her friends. Candace made dozens of quilts that are cherished by her family and friends.

Candace earned a Bachelor of Science degree for teaching from Western Michigan University. She was proud to have spent her career teaching Special Education at Nottawa Community Schools and Adrian Public Schools, from which she retired.

Candace's proudest accomplishment & greatest joy were her four daughters. She was a dedicated, supportive, and loving mother. She was always their biggest fan and made sure they knew they were loved. They will miss her immensely.

Candace is survived by her four loving daughters and one son-in-law; Kelly Smith, of Athens, MI; Carrie (Lonnie) Luttinen of Oswego, IL; Julie Smith of Apopka, FL; and Kristy Smith of Apopka, FL. Also surviving are her mother, Constance; sister, Cynthia (Raymond) Gentz; brother, Raymond Jackson Jr.; stepmother, Priscilla Jackson and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond.

Cremation has taken place per Candace's wishes. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 2nd, at the West Mendon Community Church in Mendon, MI. A visitation will take place from 10 AM - 11 AM. A celebration of life will begin at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will take place immediately following the service. Interment will take place in Franklin Township Cemetery at a later date. Please direct any memorial contributions to the Colon Food Pantry. Envelopes will be available at church.