A Legacy in Every Piece: Felicia Smith’s Puzzle Competition Returns to Rosenberg to Support Autism Awareness
A jigsaw puzzle might seem like a simple pastime, but in Fort Bend County, it’s become a powerful symbol of community, compassion, and the lasting impact of Felicia Smith. On Saturday, January 24, 2026, the Felicia Jigsaw Puzzle Competition returns for its ninth year, bringing families, friends, and neighbors together to celebrate community, connection, and compassion. The event will be held at VFW Post 3903 in Rosenberg from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
More than just a puzzle contest, this heartfelt gathering honors the memory of Felicia Jalomo Smith, a Sugar Land resident, devoted wife and mother, educator, volunteer, and champion for children with autism. What began as an idea for a simple fundraiser has since grown into a community tradition that benefits Hope For Three, a local nonprofit dedicated to autism advocacy and family support across Fort Bend County.
Felicia’s passion for service ran deep. A graduate of Dulles High School and the University of Texas, she dedicated her early career to teaching at Fort Bend ISD and St. Anne’s Catholic School. But her greatest role, by far, was being a full-time mom to her children, Marlos and Gabriela. Alongside her husband Todd, she lived a life rooted in love, creativity, and faith — the kind of life that touches everyone around it.
She poured her time and heart into organizations like the Fort Bend Junior Service League and the National Charity League’s Sugar Land Jewels Chapter, which she helped start. It was through NCL that she was introduced to Hope For Three. Inspired by the organization's mission and the families it served, she envisioned a jigsaw puzzle competition as a way to bring people together while raising both funds and awareness. Fittingly, the puzzle format symbolizes the intricate beauty and individuality of those living with autism.
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After Felicia’s passing in 2020 following a brave fight against cancer, her family chose to carry on the event in her honor. They’ve continued to grow the competition each year — ensuring Felicia’s giving spirit and fierce loyalty remain felt in every corner of the room.
All community members ages eight and older are encouraged to participate in this family-friendly event. Whether you're a competitive puzzler or just looking for a fun way to support a good cause, this event is designed to bring people together.
Proceeds from the event go directly to Hope For Three, a Fort Bend-based nonprofit founded in 2011. The organization was born from the story of another local family — the Montgomerys — who were raising identical triplet daughters, all diagnosed with autism. The overwhelming emotional and financial challenges they faced inspired friends to create a solution, and thus, Hope For Three was formed to provide monthly assistance, outreach, and advocacy for local families navigating autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Today, the nonprofit serves as a lifeline to families in Fort Bend County and beyond. With more than 9,600 autistic students currently enrolled in Fort Bend public schools and 1 in 31 children nationwide diagnosed with autism, the demand for services continues to grow. Programs offered by Hope For Three include caregiver empowerment, teen support groups, educational workshops, family financial assistance, first responder training, and safety initiatives like Project Lifesaver.
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Autism is a lifelong, neurodevelopmental condition that can affect communication, social interaction, and sensory processing. While each individual’s needs vary, what remains constant is the critical importance of early support, understanding, and inclusive opportunities. Through their work, Hope For Three fosters an environment where autistic individuals can thrive — and where caregivers feel supported every step of the way.
Felicia Smith believed deeply in that mission. Her artistry, empathy, and vibrant presence are missed — but thanks to her family and community, her impact lives on in every completed puzzle, every smiling child, and every empowered parent.
This January, whether you're participating in the competition or simply cheering from the sidelines, you're part of something meaningful. Registration, sponsorship, and underwriting opportunities are now available at hopeforthree.org/events.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
