Obituary of Ruth Arlene Smith

Ruth A. Smith, 91, died peacefully on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, after a long life filled with love, laughter and resilience. A lifelong resident of Port Washington, New York, Ruth cherished the simple joys in life. She was an avid gardener, voracious reader and most importantly the rock of her adoring family. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, neighbor, and friend. An independent and kind woman, Ruth was truly a beacon of light whose brilliance was felt in any room. She will be missed by all that were fortunate to know her love.

Ruth is survived by her six children, Debra Meo, Dawn Smith, Dale Smith, Dana Smith, Frank Smith, Mark Smith, four grandchildren David Meo (Michele), Robert Meo (Kristen), Chance Pryor, Reed Pryor, five great-grandchildren Alexandra, MacKensie, Ryan, Lucy and Michael, and her brother Richard Leeolou. She was preceded in death by her husband Frank D. Smith, grandson Frank Smith, sons-in-laws Michele Meo, Gerald Pryor, and her brother and sister-in-law Stephen and Shirley Leeolou.

Ruth raised six children, who she adored and are a testament to her legacy of kindness. She also worked diligently at the Paul D. Schreiber High School library in Port Washington, a job she cherished. She then moved on to an incredible career at the employment of the Helen Keller Center in Sands Point, where she worked proudly for decades before retiring in her early eighties. Her commitment to continued activity well into her later life was inspiring. She will be remembered for the countless lives she touched.

Church services to honor and celebrate her long life will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church in Port Washington. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Helen Keller Center.