Geneva (Smith) Barrington, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born April 10, 1940, in Great Bend, Kansas to Lawrence and Helen Smith, Geneva lived a life of vibrant faith and service to others. Embracing Jesus in childhood, she shared her unshakeable belief through open-hearted hospitality and unselfish love.
Geneva's lasting legacy is her devotion to homemaking and motherhood. She raised her children with fierce love and presence, inspiring all to prioritize family. Her influence lives on among her 4 children and 12 grandchildren, who have blessed her with 48 great-grandchildren and one great great grandchild. For many years her in-home day care was a ministry of laughter and learning, a blessing to so many.
As a teenager, Geneva met the love of her life, Leland. Geneva and Leland were the best of life partners, exemplifying the perfect union that God intended for man and wife. Geneva was deeply devoted to Leland for over 67 years.
In the 1970s, Geneva was a pioneer of home churches and led teen Bible studies, guiding dozens to stronger faith. Her doors frequently welcomed The Agape Force and other traveling evangelists as well as anyone else in need, never saying no to service. Her kitchen overflowed with her legendary homemade pizza—Friday feasts of gooey cheese and oregano—and pan-fried chicken that surpassed Colonel Sanders, forging family bonds over shared stories and laughter.
Geneva nurtured the musical gifts in her family by encouraging piano, guitar, and songwriting with affirming words. As a talented dancer in her youth, she infused her graceful steps and a joyful spirit into her family life.
Survived by her husband Leland Barrington; brother Larry Smith and wife Marian; children Alan Barrington (Beverly), Susan Wilkinson (Clay), Melissa Moreland (Shawn); 12 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. Preceded by her parents Lawrence and Helen Smith, her brothers Steve and Eddie Smith, and her precious daughter Brenda Barrington.
We rejoice in Geneva’s life of faith, and we look forward to embracing her again. A graveside funeral will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 10:00am at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5905 W 4th Ave, Hutchinson, KS. Hutchinson Funeral Chapel is handling graveside services.