Mary Wheeler Smith

MARY WHEELER SMITH, daughter of the late Albert and Frances Wheeler, was born Wednesday, March 25, 1914. On Sunday, December 15, 2013, Mary was called home to be with the Lord Jesus Christ. Mary was one of fourteen children; she was tenth from the oldest. As a youth, she attended the Saint Francis Xavier Church and school. Following grammar school, Mary attended the Franciscan Convent for four years. She continued her education studying Nursing. She received her diploma in Practical Nursing on February 28, 1949 from St. Paul Institute. After graduating, she was initially assigned to Mercy Hospital and later moved on to the Old Provident Hospital. On July 3rd, 1937 she married the Love of Her Life, Earl Alexander Smith. Together they raised one son, Cecil. Prior to Earl’s homegoing on September 10, 2007, they celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary. Earl and Mary were truly a match made in “Heaven.” Mary was a devoted catholic; she had a great love for the “Blessed Mother.” She prayed the Rosary everyday. As a member of Saint Edward Roman Catholic Church for many years, her charitable spirit was reflected through her membership in the Blessed Virgin Mary Sodality and the Visiting The Sick. She worked diligently behind the scenes always pushing and encouraging the Deacons, especially her husband Deacon Smith. Mary loved sewing, gardening, baking and especially sharing her wisdom. Her cold oven cake, homemade applesauce, homemade chicken noodle soup and tollhouse cookies will truly be missed! Mary worked for several families, helping them to take care of their young children. One family in particular, The Strauss Family, remained in contact with Mary until her passing. Ruthie Strauss, who was a toddler when Mary began working for the family, is now sixty years old; she has fond memories of her “Mrs. Smith”. After the passing of her beloved husband Earl, Mary spent the last six years of her life at the Caritas House Assisted Living Apartments. There, she enjoyed playing bingo and attending mass daily. She always complimented the girls’ hairdos and their jewelry. In her day… Mary was a fashionable dresser; she admired fine clothing and fine jewelry! Mary Wheeler Smith was a classy lady! Mary leaves to cherish precious memories: her son, Cecil; granddaughters, Beverly and Tiffany; grandson, Keith; great-grandson, Thomas; and great- great-grandson, Sage; sister, Helen Wheeler Vaughan; brother, Paul Wheeler; grandson-in-law, Thomas Jackson; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Tributes

Mary Wheeler Smith

March 25, 1914 - December 15, 2013