Carldine Durr Smith

TributeCarldine Durr Smith was born on January 23, 1940 in Birmingham, Alabama, the daughter of Robert Durr and Olivia Lofton Durr. She was number six of a large and loving family of nine children. She was educated in the Birmingham Public Schools, a brilliant student, graduating from Parker High School at the age of 16. She decided that Mathematics would be her focus and went to further her education at Tougaloo College in Tougaloo, MS., where she met her beloved future husband, Henry, marrying him at the age of 17. He says that when he saw her on campus the fist day, being brought to school by her mother, he knew immediately that “she was the one.” A few years later, Hank decided to pursue Medicine. Carldine supported and loved him, and in the process, they became parents, first, the Alva, Adrian and Gordon. As the years went by, more babies came: Angela, David and Douglas, Russell and Suzanne, for a grand total of eight, two sets of twins. Each was loved and treasured, individually, and as the lively group they were to become.Carldine devoted her life to her husband, children and grandson. She gave new meaning to the profession called HOMEMAKER, at a time when that was not such a popular calling. She was there at all times for her children; had her own carpool to schools, games, and step-shows. She could be called upon at any time, for any reason, and could be counted upon for more love and support than any person could have expected. She created an atmosphere of love and kindness, and a home that was rooted in the love of God and for all beings. Every person who entered her presence loved her because she truly loved and embraced everyone.Carldine was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, though not active in many years, she delighted in attending sorority functions with Alva; she enjoyed TV game shows with Adrian and Nicholas, her grandson. Gordon and his family were a constant joy in her life. She supported Angela in her quest to obtain her Sociology degree, and to become a new teacher. She was David’s constant companion to all of his choir performances, and weathered sleet and snow to hear him sing at Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Douglas was her sweet soul mate, whom she relied upon so much over the last few months. She supported Russell as he completes his education and discovers his path in life. Suzanne, her youngest, was her constant friend and companion.For Henry, she was the foundation of his life, his loyal friend and companion, who devoted her life to him and to the raising of their children. She was the homemaker who filled his home with warmth, love, lots of great food, and many cherished friends and family.Mom, we thank you for all of your love, that with which you graced us and the love you taught us to share with each other and so many more. Your legacy is that of kindness, sweetness, a love for humanity and love for your family and host of friends. We thank God for you, Mom, you are truly the greatest blessing any of us will ever receive. You will live in our hearts forever, and the love you gave will be the sunshine that gladdens our hearts. You are truly the wind beneath our wings.“A heart is not measured by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others…”

Tributes

Carldine Durr Smith

January 23, 1940 - November 9, 2002