Dr. Ruth Louise Smothers

- Dr. Ruth Louise Smothers, a distinguished physician and dedicated community servant of Lafayette, Louisiana, passed away on January 9, 2025, at the age of 77.
Syrie Funeral Home is conducting a graveside service held at Calvary Cemetery on Saturday, January 18, at 3:00 PM. A memorial service celebrating her life will take place at St. Paul Church on Saturday, February 15, at 9:00 AM.
A respected nephrologist and internal medicine specialist, Dr. Smothers' professional achievements were extensive. She served on the Scientific Advisory Council of the National Kidney Foundation of Southern California and held leadership positions with the Dialysis Foundation of Southern Arizona. Her commitment to advancing medical practice was evident through her memberships in numerous professional organizations, including the American Society of Nephrology, International Society of Nephrology, and the American Medical Women's Association.
Dr. Smothers played vital roles in various medical associations, serving as President (1997-2000) and Secretary-Treasurer (1996-98) of the Joseph Henry Tyler Chapter of the National Medical Association. She was also an active member of the Louisiana Medical Society and served as Treasurer of the Louisiana State Medical Association in 1998.
Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Smothers was deeply involved in her community. She was a devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church, where she sang in the 7 AM Mass choir since 1992 and was a dedicated participant in the church cantata for over 20 years. Her commitment to education was demonstrated through her service on the Holy Family Elementary Catholic School Board, where she served as Secretary and on the Budget and Finance Committee. She also contributed to early childhood education as a Community Representative on HEADSTART Broad.
Dr. Smothers' dedication to medicine, education, and community service has left an indelible mark on Lafayette and the medical community. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of medical professionals and community leaders.
She is survived by her loving aunt, Mrs. Azelia Malveaux (widow of the late Gradney Malveaux); sister-in-law, Pamela Lawrence Smothers (widow of Paul David); nieces, Tumeakia Smothers and Victoria McPhaul (Christopher); and nephews, Nicholas McPhaul (Patti) and Trenton Smothers, a close cousin, Ester Ardoin; and a host of relatives and dear friends.
Dr. Smothers was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Lillian Malveaux Smothers (2000) and Joseph Smothers (1967); and her siblings, Savannah Smothers (1980), Michael Smothers (2011), Mary Ann Smothers McPhaul (2015), and Paul David Smothers (2000).
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Arrangements have been entrusted to Syrie Funeral Home, Inc. of Lafayette, LA.