Anne L. Smead

Anne Smead, age 72, passed away on Wednesday, January 20, 2021. She is survived by husband of 52 years, William Smead; daughter, Jennifer; son-in-law, Scott Shaffer; granddaughters, Avery and Zoe; sisters, Ellen (Ken) Giffhorn, Elizabeth (Ron) Schneier, and Lorena Obrzut; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by parents Stephen and Josephine Crimmins, and brother Brian Crimmins. Anne was born in Palmer, Massachusetts, on March 4, 1948, and graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in psychology with skills she used throughout her many activities. Anne worked passionately to advance women's rights and their voting rights. She served on numerous community boards and committees. Most notably, she was a longtime member, past President, and volunteer lobbyist for the League of Women Voters of the state of Ohio as well as the League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus. Anne was a voracious reader and always had several books in progress. She possessed a keen curiosity about a wide range of topics ranging from history to politics to bird watching. She was an independent and gutsy woman and always spoke her mind. After moving to Ohio, she took flight lessons and achieved her pilot's license. In middle age, she took up snow skiing which never came naturally, but she persevered and came to enjoy it. Devoted to her daughter and two teenaged granddaughters who called her "Ma," Anne sent cards for every minor holiday just to keep in touch. She was known for her outgoing personality and generous spirit. She loved traveling, dining out, and gathering with friends and family. She and her husband traveled extensively through Europe, Scandinavia, Russia, and the Caribbean in her later years. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a Celebration of her Life will be held at a later time. Memorial contributions may be made to the League of Women Voters of Ohio, 100 E. Broad St., Suite 1310, Columbus, OH 43215.