Alice Luane (Stamper) Blecha-Smith, 86, of Imperial died June 1, 2026. Known to family and friends as Luane, Mrs. Blecha-Smith grew up in Brumley and could often be found wading in the creek behind the house with her closest friends, playing hide-and-seek, finding mischief and adventure. She earned a bachelor's degree from Southeast Missouri University and became an elementary school teacher. After 1980, she pursued a successful career in real estate. From holding open houses to making lifelong friendships, she also shared a few adventures with those friends, among them a memorable trip to Las Vegas. In her younger years, she was known to take her hot rod to Bagnell Dam and hold her own on the drag strip. A lifelong Missourian, she spent her final years in Imperial, where she often enjoyed a glass of iced tea, a sunny afternoon on the riding lawnmower and the company of family and friends. She was known for embracing a full and joyful social life, hosting legendary card nights and gatherings at the house, including a pig roast, and attending community fish fries at St. John's Catholic Church. She will be remembered for her love of bluebirds, storytelling and strong family roots in Miller County. Born Oct. 18, 1939, in Brumley, she was the daughter of the late Ted and Bethel (Robinson) Stamper.
She was preceded in death by her first husband: James Blecha; and her second husband: David M. Smith.
She is survived by two sons: Michael and Steven (Shelley) Blecha; a daughter: Bethre (Chris) Means; and three grandchildren: Clayton, Riley and Gwen.
She also was preceded in death by a brother: James Dale Stamper; and a grandson: Nathan Blecha.
Visitation is scheduled from 3-5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 11, at Heiligtag-Lang-Fendler Funeral Home, 1081 Jeffco Blvd., in Arnold. A memorial service will follow the visitation. A Catholic funeral Mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, June 13, at St. John's Catholic Church, 4614 Blue Springs Road, in Imperial. Memorial donations may be made to Gott Cemetery. Checks may be made payable to Ronsol Tomson and mailed to 284 Pea Ridge Road, Tuscumbia, 65082. Arrangements are under the direction of Heiligtag-Lang-Fendler Funeral Home.