1971-2024

Stephanie LeaAnn Gamez, of Terrell, passed away peacefully on the morning of June 8, 2024 with her family at her side. She was joyfully met in Heaven by her loving father, Danny R. Smith; her precious grandmothers: Lola Marie “MeMe” Smith, Jeanine “Memaw” Anderson and Nelda Whitehead.

Born in Terrell on Sept. 21, 1971, Stephanie brought light and joy and fun to her family and, later, her many friends. She graduated from Terrell High School in 1989 and then received her Associates from college. She began working in administrative positions and her always helpful personality along with her commitment to excellence enabled her to be a respected coworker at every workplace. Most recently, she found her “perfect job” with EMR Dallas (Gold Metal Recycling). EMR was a company that perfectly mirrored Stephanie’s personality- helpful, hardworking, responsible with a true family atmosphere. She was a dedicated employee for 10 years and her family is beyond grateful for the support and love that EMR has always shown to Stephanie.

When she wasn’t working, Stephanie loved to travel with loved ones and friends and then come home and cook for them at the many get togethers. She made sure, as she shared homecooked meals, that they were exactly like her grandmother’s signature recipes that she was determined to carry on for others enjoyment. Family was a priority for Stephanie and her world revolved around each of them, especially her son, Cameron, and then a bit later, her beautiful granddaughter, Olsen. Stephanie also treasured her husband, Jerry, and their years together brought her true happiness as they shared their lives, families and adventures. A woman who was truly beautiful inside and her heart always generously giving to anyone ahead of herself, Stephanie will be truly missed and never forgotten by everyone whose lives she touched.

Stephanie leaves her memory to always be cherished by her beloved husband, Jerry Gamez; her son, Cameron Whiteside and wife, Kaitlin; her granddaughter, Olsen J. Whiteside; her mother, Deborah Whitehead Gleaves “Gigi” and her stepfather, Ron Gleaves “Poppa”; as well as other aunts, uncles, several extended family, including a special aunt, Debbie Jo Smith, along with countless friends, each of whom will miss Stephanie dearly.

A celebration of her life was held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at Max Slayton Funeral Chapel.

For those wishing, and in honor of Stephanie's love for all animals, donations can be made to Terrell Animal Alliance at https://www.venmo.com/u/TerrellAnimalAlliance or mail to: TAA, 13802 Sarah Ln. Terrell, TX 75161.

Condolences may be shared with her family at www. maxslaytonfunerals.com.