Our Staff
Will Traxson
Owner & Funeral Director
Will Traxson is a graduate of Coffeyville Community College and the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service. With more than 25 years in the funeral service profession, Will has dedicated his career to helping families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Will and his family moved to Athens from Midland, Texas, and have been proud to call the Athens and Henderson County communities home. Will and his family have four daughters and have always placed a strong emphasis on Faith and Family. Throughout the years, they have been actively involved in their church, youth ministry, and numerous community and civic organizations, including Rotary Club, Boys & Girls Clubs, Special Olympics, the Chamber of Commerce, Community Economic Development Corporations, Relay for Life, YouthWorks, and the Lions Eye Bank.
For Will and his family, funeral service is much more than a profession—it is a ministry. They believe they have been blessed with the opportunity to serve others and strive to provide every family with compassion, dignity, and personal care.
Will and his family are honored to serve the people of Athens, Henderson County, and the surrounding communities, and they remain committed to being there for families when they need them most.
Kimberly Golden
Funeral Director
Kimberly Golden is a graduate of the Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Liberty University. Funeral service has been a lifelong part of Kim’s family. Her parents owned and operated Chandler Memorial for more than twenty years, while her grandparents owned and operated Tyler Memorial for over thirty-five years.
Following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, Kim believes God has given her the gifts and abilities needed to lift others up during some of life’s most difficult moments. She considers it a privilege to walk alongside families during their time of loss, helping guide them through the funeral process with compassion, care, and understanding. Kim is grateful to work alongside her family of co-workers in serving the families entrusted to their care.
Patty Valencia
Office Manager
Patty joined our team in 2023 after many years of dedicated service with Athens Independent School District and the Henderson County Appraisal District. Her years of serving others have brought a wealth of experience, compassion, and genuine care to her role with our funeral home.
Patty is a devoted member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church, where she actively participates in several outreach ministries and women’s groups. Her faith and commitment to helping others are reflected in everything she does.
As an integral member of the Hannigan Smith Funeral Home family, Patty plays an important role in helping us serve the Hispanic community throughout the area. Her ability to connect with families, understand their needs, and provide compassionate support is a true blessing to those we serve. We are proud to have Patty as a member of our team and grateful for the heart, dedication, and care she brings to our families each day.