Obituary of Esther Smith

Esther passed forward serenely November 5, 2011 at age 91 at Pennybyrn in High Point, NC. She was predeceased by her parents Mortimer and Grace Springer, her sister Laura Thorpe and her husband Henry J. Smith. Esther is survived by her children: William (Barbara) Smith of Pittsford, NY; JoAnn (William Payne) Smith of Summerfield, NC; James (Sheryl) Smith of Webster, NY; and Robert (Suzanne) Smith of Seal Beach, CA; grandchildren: Jodie Schwartz, Deborah Smith, Steven Smith, Buffy Peterson, Nolan Smith, Hayden Smith, and Cullen Smith, and great-grandchildren: Jessica Schwartz, Jacob Schwartz, Ella Smith, Evan Smith, Kylee Peterson, and Rayne Peterson. Born in Moravia, NY, Esther attended Boston University at age 16 graduating with a BA in Religious Education. She married Henry Smith in Moravia, NY in 1940. The family thrived in Phelps, NY from 1951 to 1990. Esther subsequently lived in Keuka Park, NY, The Highlands in Pittsford, NY, and most recently in High Point, NC. Esther was an insatiable reader, intrepid camper and talented artist and gardener and she reveled in music. She was always up for any family adventure. Esther earned a Master's Degree in Library Science from NY State University at Geneseo in 1959 and became instrumental in the formation of the Community Memorial Library in Phelps. She and Henry were spirited bridge players. Esther loved time at Owasco Lake with her children and parents and later enjoyed time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren at Keuka Lake. Esther lived a life of service to her family, her community, and her church. She was an active member of the Phelps Methodist Church. Her concern was for the happiness and success of others. A Celebration of Life will be held at Pennybyrn at Maryfield, High Point, NC on December 1st at 10:00 am. A memorial service will be held at the United Church of Phelps, NY, on December 19th at 11:00 am. Burial will be at the Resthaven Cemetery in Phelps, NY. The family would especially like to thank the wonderful staff at Pennybyrn and Hospice for their care and love. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Hospice of the Piedmont in High Point, NC, the Phelps Library, the Phelps Historical Society, or The ALS Association. Lambeth-Troxler Funeral Service is assisting the family. The obituary and online condolences may be viewed at www.lambethtroxlerfuneralhome.com