Rebecca “Becki” Waller Smith passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, surrounded by love and held closely in the hearts of those who knew her best. Born on April 11, 1954 in Dayton, Ohio, Becki spent most of her life in Tampa, Florida — a place she embraced fully and proudly called home.

Becki was one of a kind: bright, outspoken, warm, fiercely strong-willed, and wonderfully herself at every turn. She lived her life with color and conviction, never taking “no” for an answer and always finding a way forward, no matter the obstacle. Her determination was legendary, her humor unexpected and sharp, and her love for her family absolute. She was proud of her daughters every single day of her life, and she made sure they knew it.

She enjoyed a long and successful career in insurance sales, where she was a natural — driven, persuasive, and deeply loyal to the people she served. Becki was consistently a top performer, not because she chased accolades, but because she simply refused to fall short of any goal she set for herself.

Outside of work, she filled her world with the things she loved most. She was an unapologetic fan of Law & Order: SVU, watching episode after episode with an enthusiasm that made everyone around her smile. She adored a good steak-and-potatoes dinner — a comfort she insisted on even during her time in hospice. And nothing brought her more joy than her beloved pup, Darien, who remained a constant source of companionship, laughter, and light.

Becki faced cancer with the same spirit she brought to everything else: courage, stubborn strength, a fierce fight, and a deep desire to stay present with the people she loved. Her journey was not easy, but she met every challenge with determination and honesty. Sharing that part of her story honors who she was — someone who faced life head-on, even in its hardest moments.

She is survived by her daughters, Krystal Little and Caitlin Wildfong, and preceded in death by her husband, Carl U. Smith III, with whom she shared many years of partnership, care, and devotion.

To those who loved her, Becki was a force — sometimes wild, sometimes tender, always unforgettable. She fought fiercely for her children, cared deeply for her husband during his own illness, and advocated boldly for herself in every season of life. Her tenacity, her humor, her fire, and her love will continue to echo through the lives she touched.

We love you, Mom. And we miss you more than words could ever hold.

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