Edith Chesluk Smith

Edith Smith (nee Chesluk) died peacefully at home at age 96. She was born in the Bronx to the late Ida and Simon Chesluk, both immigrants fleeing the horrors of Eastern Europe. She lost her beloved husband of 72 years, H Bernard Smith, two years ago. At the end, in home-hospice, Edith was surrounded by family and friends. She took pleasure in all who visited.

Edith was the loving mother of Devorah (Joe Leva) and Jonathan Smith (Leena Nevalainen-Smith). She was a wise grandmother who related to each child based on their very different personalities. She will be fondly remembered by Aaron Leva, Ariel Grill (Adam), Ilana Leva, Kai Smith, and Ari Smith.

Edith had a deep connection with Temple Mishkan Or. She was also a member of a 50-year-old bookclub. (It started among young mothers in Cleveland with NYC roots; when the original members died their daughters often joined.)

Edith had deep respect and empathy for those from different backgrounds than herself. As her health failed, the aides who cared for her became a second family. There was love and laughter along with sadness in the hospice at home.

Edith was also an intelligent and fierce woman who would not let limitations stand in her way. She got a job at the flagship Macy’s and put herself through City College of New York. Then, with children, she put herself through graduate school. She then expanded upon her social work degree and became a child analyst. As her husband worked for the public good, Edith, a born businesswoman, used her skills and did very well for her family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Hannah Perkins Center for Child Development (hannaperkins.org) or League of Women Voters' Education Fund (lwv.org) any other cause about which you feel deeply and want to support.

Services will be held Sunday January 19, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel, 1985 S. Taylor Rd. Cleveland Hts. Private Interment Mayfield Cemetery.

The family will be receiving friends Sunday from 2:30 to 4:30 at Deer Creek Lodge (Formerly Wiggins Place) 27070 Cedar Rd. Beachwood. To view service livestream go to BKBMC.com, open Obituaries, open Edith Smith obituary, scroll down and click the Join Livestream Button.