Edna Jean Smith

Born on July 20, 1944, Edna lived a life shaped by purpose, resilience, compassion, and love. Her journey carried her from Florida to New York City and ultimately to Atlanta, Georgia, where she built a rich and meaningful life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

For more than 40 years, Edna dedicated herself to early childhood education. Her patience, wisdom, and nurturing spirit shaped generations of children and families. Even after retiring—twice—her creativity continued to shine as she operated her own craft business, bringing joy to many through her artistic gifts.

In 2018, Edna began a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Despite the challenges, she remained determined, faithful, independent, and upbeat for as long as possible. Inspired by the perseverance of others living with Parkinson’s, including Michael J. Fox, she faced her journey with remarkable strength and dignity. Through every stage of care—her home, assisted living, rehabilitation centers, and finally personal home care—Edna continued her journey with grace, courage, and an unwavering spirit.

One of her greatest joys in recent years was becoming a great-grandmother. Meeting the newest member of her family’s fourth generation filled her with pride and renewed determination, giving her a precious milestone to hold onto during difficult days.

Edna leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her brother, Charles; her son, Eric; her grandchildren, Daniel and Elijah; her great-grandchild, Valentina; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers, nurses, aides, rehabilitation teams, hospice staff, ministers, volunteers, home care workers, family members, and friends who provided compassion, dignity, and support throughout Edna’s journey.

Edna believed deeply in encouraging others and often lived by the phrase

“LOVE YOU MUCH”

She embraced each letter as a reminder of how to live:

Laugh — Enjoy life and laugh often.

Open-Minded — Stay willing to grow and learn.

Victory — Know you can overcome challenges.

Excellence — Strive to be your best.

Yarn — Life weaves together both good and difficult moments into who we become.

Observant — Listen with empathy and awareness.

Unshakeable — Stay grounded in your values.

Mindset — Your mindset shapes your future.

Upbeat — Keep your spirit positive despite adversity.

Character — Let your character define your legacy.

Humble — True strength walks hand in hand with humility.

A Celebration of Life Reception will be held on Thursday June 4, 2026 at Thrive West Building located at 44 Milton Avenue, Alpharetta, GA 30009 from 6 PM until 9 PM (Please enter in the back of building closest to the street). The dress code is casual and there is free parking available behind the building or across the street from the veterinarian office. R.S.V.P. to Eric at 914-720-2965 or email at [email protected].

Edna’s legacy of love, perseverance, kindness, faith, and strength will continue to live on through all those whose lives she touched.

WITH LOVE AND HUGS – YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS