In Loving Memory of
Nicole A. “Coey” Smithson
April 16, 1975 – August 1, 2025
Age 50
It is with the utmost deepest sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Nicole A. “Coey” Smithson, who died of natural causes on August 1, 2025, in Lincoln, Montana, at the age of 50.
Nicole was born on April 16, 1975, in Marietta, Georgia. Nicole was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother “Mimi”, and friend.
Nicole graduated from Lassiter High School in 1993 and went on to build a life rooted in family, creativity, and compassion.
On October 8, 2005, she married the love of her life, Ken S. Smithson in Helen, Georgia. Together, they raised a beautiful family, creating a home full of love, laughter, and enduring memories. They lived in Waleska, Georgia, with their children, Chandler and Kayleigh, until 2019, when the family moved to Helena, Montana, to be closer to Ken’s family. Nicole enjoyed the mild summers in Montana but absolutely despised the snowy winters.
Nicole worked at Respironics (Philips) as a Quality Analyst from 2002 to 2010. After the birth of her daughter, Kayleigh, she left her career in 2010 to fulfill her cherished dream of becoming a devoted stay-at-home mom – a role she embraced with pride and joy. Being a mother was her greatest passion and becoming Mimi to her grandchildren brought her even more happiness.
Nicole was an avid scrapbooker who adored all things arts and crafts. She found joy and relaxation in scrapbook retreats with her close friends in both Georgia and Montana. In her spare time, she loved visiting ceramic and DIY wood/paint studios with her daughter and mother-in-law. While she wasn’t an outdoors person, she still enjoyed the occasional camping trip with Ken, Kayleigh, and extended family – always willing to be part of the adventure because of the people she loved.
She is survived by her husband, Ken S. Smithson, and their children: Chandler McClusky, Kayleigh Smithson, and Dillon Smithson. She was a devoted and adoring Mimi to Sarah Smithson and Tobias Smithson.
Nicole is also survived by her parents, Bill (Wanda) Phillips and Sybil (Johnny) Oliver; her siblings, Kim (Brett) Clark and Brad Phillips; and a host of extended family members and close friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.
Nicole was known for her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness, making her one of the most special human beings to ever walk this Earth. She was one of the good ones. She had a smile that could light up a room, and her inner child was always shining through, bringing joy, laughter, and a lightheartedness that lifted everyone around her. Nicole was the love of her husband’s and daughter’s life – their constant, their heart, and their safe place.
Nicole’s home was wherever her heart was. She was the most thoughtful person and one of the kindest souls in this world. A few of her favorite things in life were the beach, her grape-purple Jeep, her collection of owls, Corgi dogs, cardinals, and the beautiful azalea blooms of the Georgia springtime – each bringing her joy in their own special way.
She had a rare gift for making others feel welcomed, valued, and loved deeply. Her presence brought comfort, her laughter lifted spirits, and her love was a constant source of strength to those lucky enough to know her.
Nicole “Coey” Smithson will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished in our hearts.
A celebration of Coey’s life will take place on Friday, August 29, 2025 at 3pm in the reception hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N Montana Ave., Helena, MT 59602. Friends will be invited to join the family as they share memories of Nicole. Condolences can also be shared at www.aswfuneralhome.com in Nicole’s memory.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
3:00pm
Friday August 29, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home- Reception Hall
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
3:00pm
Friday August 29, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home- Reception Hall
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Share
Philip & Anne Charpentier says
Dear Ken, Phil and I are so sorry to read of your wife’s passing. Our deepest sympathies to you and your children. May your loving memories bring you peace during this difficult time.
Crickett Foster says
Thoughts and prayers with you Ken and Kayleigh. I am deeply honored to have known Nicole and call her friend. She will live on with many fond memories.
Kim Clark says
She was my baby sister, But she was a beloved wife and mother to you and KJ. My heart is broken for your loss. She will be dearly missed by all of us. But forever in our hearts.
Vanessa L Pack says
Praying for everyone at this time. I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m here for you, always, and your sister’s memory will never be forgotten. Love you, Kim.
Sonya says
This is still so unbelievable. My heart breaks for all of her family, especially her children, Ken and her mom. Nicole was the absolute sweetest, kindest most giving person I have ever known. She will truly be missed. She regularly mailed cards and sent letters and pictures to us here in Georgia. They were especially comforting to my mother, her Aunt Brenda. We are all praying for the family and wish everyone peace and comfort.