Meet Eileen Smith – St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church

Have you met Eileen?

We asked Eileen some questions so that we can get to know her better.

What is your name?

Eileen Smith

How long have been a staff member at St. Stephen the Martyr?

18 years; I started in the kitchen for two years (the “Kitchen Chicks” were such a faithful & loving group of women) till this position opened up in the Rel Ed office, which I was so excited to get.

What is your position?

Administrative Assistant Rel Ed Dept

Where did you work before St. Stephen the Martyr?

Divine Redeemer Catholic Church in Colorado Springs-while running my own home daycare business and before that, the Henry Doorly Zoo!

Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?

I grew up in South Omaha off 38th and U Steet. I went to St. Mary’s Grade School in Omaha, Gross High School, and UNO.

Tell us about your family (spouse, children, grandchildren, pets, etc.):

I come from a large family with seven siblings and wonderful parents. I am married to David Smith who is from Bossier City, LA. I met him 1981 at Offutt AFB where he was a professional musician in the Air Force. We were married in 1986 and were stationed at the Air Force Academy for 15 years. We have three children, Jeffrey, Ashley and Kimberly. Jeff is married to Jamison Hedrick and they have two children; Madelynn and Dawson and Ashley is married to Shon Bahr and they have two children also; Mikaela and Dominic.

What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

Enjoying any special events going on in town, spending time with the family, listening to music while baking.

What do you like to do for fun? What do you like to do to unwind/relax?

I like camping or getting away in a cabin for a few days. Hobbies are cooking, fishing, playing games

What’s your least favorite chore around the house?

Cleaning the bathrooms! Ugh!!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

It changed between a dancer and a hairstylist.

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?

Nope

What is your favorite food?

A good steak!

What is your favorite sweet treat?

Hersheyettes-which are hard to find outside the Christmas season!

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

I hope I raise my children and well as you have raised me.

What three items would you take with you to a deserted island?

A bible, music, and bug spray!

What’s your idea of a perfect day?

Enjoying a cup of coffee while watching a little TV or reflection, doing some shopping, making an awesome dinner for the family (where we enjoy it with no fighting from the grandkids!!) and ending it with some fun games around the table.

What do you enjoy most about working at St. Stephen the Martyr?

Being able to stay rooted in my faith while helping others do the same. I have loved the flexibility of being able to help out my family and friends when needed. Meeting so many awesome and faithful people.

Which word in our mission statement has the most impact on you? Why?

Encounter Christ. Having all the little unexpected examples of God’s love for us.

What advice do you have for others to grow their Catholic faith and relationship with Jesus Christ?

Become involved in a ministry or event in the parish and you will find yourself encountering Christ in ways that will help you grow as a person of faith.