View this Video Tribute Vera Ella Smoot, 81, of Keokuk, IA, died Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at Lexington Square in Keokuk, IA. She was born on July 30, 1924 in Keokuk, IA, the daughter of Osborn "Happ" and Bertha Jones Kincaid. She married Stanley L. Pepple in 1942. In 1966, Vera was united in marriage to Bill Smoot. He preceded her in death. Vera and Bill had lived in Alexandria, MO for several years and she lost her home in the Great Flood of 1993. In the late 1940's, Vera was employed by the Keokuk Pickle Factory, Purity Oats and the Swift Company. She also had been employed at St. Joseph Hospital in Keokuk, IA and had provided child care in her home for several years. She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 3508 in Keokuk. Vera loved life and lived it to the fullest. She really enjoyed fishing and caring for children. She loved to play canasta by the hour with her daughter-in-law, when her daughter-in-law was just a teenager. Her family was very important to her and her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She is survived by her son, Delmar L. Pepple and his wife, Betty Lou of Keokuk, IA, one sister, Bernetta Kustes, three grandchildren, Terry L. Pepple and his wife Tammy of Camry, IN, Vincent R. Pepple of Green Castle, MO and Tabitha L. Pepple of Council Bluffs, IA, two great-grandchildren, Joshua A. and Caleb A. Pepple of Camry, IN, three step-grandchildren, Rebecca Stovie Brent, Patricia Lee Smith and Blaine and Steven Patrick Peacock Rachel, nine step-great-grandchildren, Michele Renae Peacock, Christine Marie Clang Shane, Blaine Patrick Smith, Stevie Jean Smith, Megan Ann Stovie, Hannah Lynne Stovie, Melissa Caroline Yazel, Paige Elizabeth Peacock and Phoenix Alexander Farrell, two step-great-great-granddaughters, Monica Lee Brislon and Sevestra Mae Bullock, and her longtime special friends, Mel Joann Sapp, Mert Cummings, Charolette Pepple and Julie Breakbill and her daughter Summer. A Gathering of Remembrance for family and friends was held from noon – 5 p.m. on Friday, March 31 at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA.