Zella “Zoady” Mae Smith-Boggs

Zella “Zoady” Mae Smith-Boggs, 65, passed away of natural causes on Feb. 10, 2026. 

Born on Jan. 6, 1961, in Mansfield, Ohio, Zoady was the cherished daughter of Donna Mae Smith and Elmer “Doc” Adam Smith. Zoady was a devoted mother, and her children were her pride and joy. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Tabitha (Steve) Fultz; her daughter, Kimmy (Matt) Mills; her son, Michael; and her son, Kyle. 

She also leaves behind her sister, Lisa Lookabaugh; her sister-in-laws, Deanna and Danielle; her brother-in-laws, Mark, Eric, Chris and Craig; her beloved grandchildren, Alexis, Caleb, Hunter, Amanda, Devon, Landon, Hannah, Braxtyn, Lance, Nathaniel, Kaden; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many other cherished family members. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Larry “Monk” Adam Boggs; her parents, Donna Mae Smith and Elmer “Doc” Adam Smith; and her sister, Teresa Kay Hall.

Zoady earned a four-year associate’s degree in Business Science. Throughout her life, she spent many years managing small businesses and dedicating herself to helping them succeed. She also worked alongside her husband at Bees Construction, handling billing, blueprint reading, accounting and bookkeeping before retiring. 

In addition, Zoady spent time learning the trades of the lumber yard, working in dryers, route and fill, and as a plugger. She took pride in understanding every aspect of the work and was never afraid to learn something new. Her versatility, determination and hands-on work ethic were a true reflection of her strength and independence. 

Zoady found the absolute match of her heart in Doug Bee. The two met in Ohio in 1996 after being set up on a blind date, and from that moment on, there was no separating them. Just weeks after meeting Doug, Zoady made the courageous decision to move to Libby, Montana to build a life together and chase their dreams side by side. Doug and Zoady shared 30 very happy years together there, creating a life filled with love, partnership, loyalty and unwavering devotion. 

In her free time, Zoady enjoyed bowling, donating her “$20s to the slots,” attending family gatherings and taking part in the annual Sanders County yard sale. She loved being surrounded by family and friends and cherished the laughter and memories made during those special times. 

Zoady knew her, Lord. She was a believer, devoted to her Creator, and she lived by His Word. Her faith guided her life and strengthened her through every season. Zoady had a heart like a rock — strong, steady and unwavering. She was a transparent person; there was never any guessing where she stood in a conversation. She spoke honestly, loved fiercely, and gave wholeheartedly each and every day. 

Her strength was matched only by the depth of her loyalty and the generosity of her spirit. 

A service celebrating Zoady’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at Libby Christian Church, with a potluck to follow. The family will hold a private reception at a later date. 

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg and Riddle Funeral Home of Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.