A Life of Compassion & Impact
Mary Helen Deer-Smith (Kiowa) was a remarkable leader, healer, and advocate whose influence on Native health will be felt for generations. A former Executive Director of Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), she dedicated her life to improving the health and well-being of American Indian communities through service, leadership, and compassion.
As a registered nurse trained at Bellin Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, Mary Helen brought both clinical knowledge and a deep understanding of community needs to every role she held. Over the course of her career, she served as a health administrator, educator, consultant, planner, and tireless champion for healthy Native communities.
A Leader in the Native Community
She served 17 years as Executive Director for two urban Indian health clinics, including OKCIC, as well as a residential treatment center. Her commitment to Native health extended well beyond those leadership roles, as she continued to share her expertise as a trainer and consultant, helping guide and strengthen programs across Indian Country.
Mary Helen was the sister of Dr. Alvin Deer and the aunt of Dr. James Kennedye, both of whom currently serve on OKCIC’s Board of Directors. Her legacy is one of compassion, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication to Native health, reflected in the countless lives she touched and the institutions she
helped build.
