Shae Smith represents Missouri at Miss USA, honors her hometown roots

From the El Dorado Springs Newsroom

While Friday night lights were sounding off across southwest Missouri, many locals found themselves tuning in for a different kind of hometown pride — watching Bolivar’s own Shae Smith take the national stage at the 74th annual Miss USA Pageant in Reno, Nevada.

Representing Missouri, Smith placed in the Top 16 in the nation and earned the National Costume Award for her striking presentation of “The City of Fountains,” a tribute to Kansas City’s iconic title. Her grace and resilience throughout the competition have captured the hearts of many, both near and far.

In a recent social media post, Smith wrote, “If I could split my crown in two, I’d give half to my mom — my personal stylist, biggest cheerleader, and best friend. Couldn’t do it without her.”

Those who know the Smith family understand the meaning behind those words. Shae’s journey has been one of faith, strength, and perseverance — beginning long before the pageant spotlight. At just 11 years old, she was diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis, a spinal curve measuring more than 60 degrees. In 2019, she underwent major anterior scoliosis correction surgery, a procedure that required months of recovery and physical therapy.

True to her determined spirit, Shae was back on her feet — and even performing back handsprings — within three months of surgery. Her experience inspired a personal mission to raise awareness for early detection of scoliosis and to encourage other young people facing similar challenges. She later wrote a children’s book titled “Beautiful Crooked Letter I,” turning her own story into one of hope and resilience.

Before earning the Miss Missouri USA 2025 crown, Shae was already a familiar face in Bolivar. Locals remember her as the smiling girl who grew up at Smith’s Restaurant, chatting with customers and dancing between tables — a reflection of the same warmth and work ethic that have long defined her family’s business.

The Smith family’s story began when C.A. and Peggy Smith opened the original Smith’s Restaurant in Collins, Missouri, alongside a thriving strawberry patch near their home. A local artist created their now-iconic turtle-and-strawberry logo and has remained a hallmark for travelers and locals alike. For generations, diners have come for the restaurant’s homemade country meals — and especially for its famous strawberry pie.

In 2004, Mark and Angie Smith opened the Bolivar location in honor of Mark’s parents, continuing a family tradition of faith, hospitality, and hard work. Known as the home of the giant pork tenderloin sandwich, the Bolivar restaurant welcomes hundreds of guests each week. It has become a favorite stop for families, travelers, and antique lovers.

The walls inside tell the Smith family’s story of perseverance, loss, and faith — a memorial to their children, Cali and Canyun, and most recently to Mark Smith, who passed away after a life dedicated to family and service. Today, Angie Smith and their children continue to carry on his legacy, both in the restaurant and through their faith-driven outreach.

For many, seeing Shae represent Missouri on the Miss USA stage felt like seeing a piece of home shine in the national spotlight. “We are so proud of her representation of our hometown and our state,” the Smith family said in a statement. “She carries with her the same faith, values, and love for people that this restaurant was built on.”

Those interested in following Shae’s journey can visit Miss Missouri USA on Facebook or follow her on Instagram @missmousa. Appearance requests can be made at missmissouriusa.com.

From serving meals in a small-town restaurant to representing Missouri before a national audience, Shae Smith continues the family tradition — one built on hard work, hospitality, and heart.