Pearl Donette Smith Graffeo, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024, in Hemphill. Born on April 18, 1943, in Fairdale, to William Franklin Smith and Nola Emily Mitchell Smith, Donette lived a life marked by kindness and dedication to her family and community. Donette devoted her career to caring for others as a home health nurse, where her compassion and meticulous nature were evident to all who knew her. Her love for cooking brought joy to family gatherings, and her home was always a place of warmth and hospitality. Donette's passion for fast cars was a delightful surprise to many, reflecting her spirited personality. She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert “Bob” Graffeo, Sr., of Hemphill; her sons, Bobby Williams and his wife, Shelley, of Nacogdoches, and Joseph Hathaway of Hemphill. Donette's legacy continues through her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Donette was preceded in death by her parents, Will and Nola Smith; her brothers, Randall Smith and Wilber Smith; and her sister, Jerlene Fuller.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 1, 2024 at Starr Funeral Home.

Funeral services will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 2, 2024 at Starr Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Floyd Wright officiating.

Burial will follow services in Mt. Sinai Cemetery in Fairmount, Texas under the direction of Starr Funeral Home with Christopher Williams, Robert Collier, Kirk Butler, Ryan Barton, Robert Graffeo, Jr., and Johnny Davis serving as pallbearers.

Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome. com.