Miriam "Mimi" Van Alstyne Winchell Smith

A life well-lived is a life well-loved! In loving memory of our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Mimi was born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, to Sears Roy and Mary Una Van Alstyne and was the eldest of 10 children. She was married to Donald Edward Winchell for 24 years until his passing and spent her time raising their 4 children. She continued her college education at age 50 and graduated to become a teacher, with top honors. Mimi was fortunate to meet and marry Merrill James Smith, who had two grown children (Robin Peters and Randy Smith).

Mimi and Merrill had a long and adventurous marriage of 44 years until his passing in 2021. Over the course of her life, she lived in many states, finally residing in Raleigh, North Carolina, to retire. Mimi and Merrill traveled the world from the vast landscapes of the United States to the storied streets of Europe, China, Russia, the Middle East, and the beaches of the Caribbean, as well. Her love of travel, history, and adventure was insurmountable, only to be matched for the love of her family.

During retirement, she enjoyed playing tennis, skiing, playing cards, reading, and going to the symphony, aside from her continual travels.

Mimi had a wonderful, kindhearted personality, which she shared through being an active contributor to local community charity organizations and helping friends & family.

Mimi is survived by her children; Sally Walden (Bill), Sandra Winchell (Dennis), Susan St. Amour and William Winchell, 3 grandchildren; Michal Bauer, Aaron Lee (Tonya) and Ashley St. Amour and 1 great grandchild; Kylee St. Amour, siblings; David Van Alstyne (Jeannette), Phyllis Miller (Donald), Susan Halpin and Beverly Krol (John), sister/brother-in-laws; Eleanor Van Alstyne, Patricia Van Alstyne, Barbara Van Alstyne and Andrew Plue. Besides her husbands and parents, she was predeceased by her brothers, Wesley (Nanette), Charles, Sears, and Thomas Van Alstyne, and sister, Patricia Plue.

Per Mimi’s wish, there will not be a memorial or funeral service for the public.

In honor of Mimi’s giving spirit, memorial donations in her name may be made to the American Heart Association.

Mimi’s story does not end here; it continues in every adventure we take and every moment we cherish with those we love.