On December 16, 2024, Marjorie B. Smith, an 80-year-old resident of Custer, passed away due to injuries sustained in a vehicle accident that occurred six days earlier near Sturgis, South Dakota. The collision happened on westbound Interstate 90, close to mile marker 36, just four miles east of Sturgis.
The tragic accident unfolded on December 10, when a 77-year-old man, driving a pickup truck in which Smith was a passenger, lost control of the vehicle. According to law enforcement, the truck veered into the median before rolling over, leaving both Smith and the driver seriously injured. Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported both to a nearby medical facility, where they received treatment. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Marjorie B. Smith succumbed to her injuries on December 16. The driver, whose injuries were severe, is expected to recover.
For those who knew and loved Marjorie Smith, the news of her passing has left a deep sense of loss. At 80, she was a cherished member of the Custer community, known for her warmth, wisdom, and kindness. Friends and family remember her as a woman who loved life and made the world brighter with her presence. Her passing has not only left a void in the lives of those closest to her but has also shaken the larger community, which she was an integral part of for many years.
Born and raised in South Dakota, Marjorie lived a life filled with love and generosity. She spent her years in Custer, where she formed close bonds with neighbors, friends, and loved ones. Those who knew her best describe her as a kind-hearted soul, always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether it was supporting her local church or participating in community activities, Marjorie’s presence was always felt and appreciated.
Her death, caused by an unfortunate accident, has left many grappling with grief. The fact that it came after days of fighting for her life in the hospital has only deepened the sorrow for her family and friends. The driver, a man who shared much of Marjorie’s life, will now live with the emotional and physical scars of that day, but those close to him hope that the support of the community will help him through his recovery.
The road conditions leading to the accident have not been explicitly disclosed, but winter driving in South Dakota is often perilous. Authorities continue to remind drivers of the dangers of icy or snow-covered roads during the colder months, as even experienced drivers can face unexpected challenges. While the circumstances that led to the truck losing control may never be fully understood, the aftermath is clear: a family is mourning the loss of a beloved woman, and a community has lost a dear friend.
Marjorie’s death highlights the fragility of life and the importance of treasuring every moment with loved ones. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Friends and family are expected to gather in the coming days to honor her life, celebrate the impact she had on others, and offer comfort to one another as they navigate this difficult time.
In remembering Marjorie B. Smith, her loved ones focus not just on the tragic way she left the world but on the full and meaningful life she led. She was a mother, a friend, and a pillar in her community, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and love that will endure.
Rest in peace, Marjorie B. Smith, whose life was taken too soon in a tragic accident, but whose spirit will forever remain with those who had the privilege of knowing her.