Annie Mae Palte, affectionately known as Shorty since she was two years old, went to her heavenly home on February 23, 2023, at the age of 69. She passed surrounded by her dear family at Lima Memorial Health System. 

Shorty was born June 6, 1953 in Cannon, KY, to Richard and Nellie (Mason) Smith who preceded her in death. On December 12, 1986 she married Robert "Poke" Palte who survives.

Shorty retired from the Village of Beaverdam as a fiscal officer and also from Speedway. She loved tending bar, playing cards, attending her nieces and nephews sporting events, and spending time with family and friends. 

She is survived by her husband, Robert "Poke" Palte of Beaverdam; a brother, Beve Smith of Berea, KY; two sisters, Martha Ann "Gail" Whitt of Lima and Ada Marlene (Wayne) Shannon of Knoxville, TN; sisters-in-law, Sue (Bob) Palte and Sandy (Mike) Conley; brothers-in-law, Tom (Anne) Palte, Tim (BJ) Palte, Steven (Angie) Palte; as well as many well-loved nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends. 

In addition to her parents, Shorty was preceded in death by her siblings; Johnny Smith, Earnest Smith, Randall Smith and Cleda Jackson.

Services will be held February 28, 2023 at 11:00 am at Lafayette Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be Monday, February 27, 2023, 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services of Bluffton, and one hour prior to the service at the church. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Beaverdam-Richland Fire & EMS.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/