Maria R. Smith, 94, a resident of Mount Vernon, passed away peacefully in the sunshine, surrounded by her family on Thursday, July 26, 2012. She was born on December 30, 1917 in Richfield, Utah. She was raised in Utah and Idaho. After graduation from Weiser High School in 1935, she attended and graduated from University of Idaho with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in 1939.
In addition to being a mother and homemaker, Maria worked for the National Weather Service in Boise for 13+ years. She had made her home in Boise until 2008 when she moved to Mount Vernon, Washington to be near her family.
Maria is survived by her children, Bill and Janine Smith of Sedona, AZ, Marge Swint of Mount Vernon, WA and Larry and Linda Smith of Yardley, PA. Seven grandchildren, Riley & Ashley Smith of California, David & Mike Swint of Washington and Jeffrey, Amanda & Gregory Smith of Pennsylvania.
The family suggest memorials be made to the Diabetes Association, Hospice of the Northwest or a charity of your choice.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.
We began as secretaries for the National Weather Service and have been friends since early 70’s. I always admired her congeniality, her expertise, and concientiousness in our dealings; she in Boise, and I, in Regional headquarters in Salt Lake serving cooperative weather observers as part of my duties. Maria always made sure I took care of our observers in Idaho. When I changed careers I moved to Boise, and had good fortune work in BIFC with her. We became fast friends. She was a no nonsense, matter of fact person with a strong desire to be independant. Unfortunately, that couldn’t happen in later years. Many blessings should be bestowed to her daughter, Marge, for her loving and concientious care of her mother. Maria was a special friend to many and my very dearest friend! I’m sure her sweet smile is shining down on us. Much love to her fine family and friends.
My sincere condolences to Maria’s family. Maria & I became friends when she moved to the Skagit Valley to be close to her daughter, Marge, who has been a long time good friend of mine. Maria was a lovely woman with such an easy going personality. She was a strong individual and someone to be admired. I don’t think I ever saw her angry even when she suffered pain after having a couple of tumbles. Maria was a fighter & worked hard to get better when she had a set-back. She cherished her family and was proud of them all & she did not forget her friends; sending cards was important to her. I enjoyed her stories, but most of all I will remember her smile. Maria will be missed, however, her niceness will still be seen in the children she raised. Rest in peace, Maria.