Joan E. Elliott Smith

Smith, Joan Elliott, age 96, wise, loving, giving, artistic, a true “lady”, passed on to the next phase of her life surrounded by loved ones at Hospice Health Care Center in Orange City, July 31. Born in Franklin, Indiana on Valentines’ Day, 1917, to Morris and Lillian Elliott, Joan was a graduate of Northwestern University. There she was a member of: Theta Sigma Phi (journalism honorary), Delta Delta Delta sorority and Orchesis, a modern dance troupe. It was through her dancing that she met her husband the late Philip Smith. When the men’s chorus joined the dancers for a musical show, Phil made sure to position himself so that when the director paired off the gals and guys, he would be Joan’s partner. The couple’s 70 year marriage produced no arguments and three children. It also took them from Chicago to Indiana, to Ohio, to New Jersey, back to Chicago and finally to DeLand.

In DeLand, Joan was active in worthy community programs including the Neighborhood Center, Habitat, the Azalea Garden Club, West Volusia Artists, and was a volunteer art and music teacher for Evergreen Day School. She was a long time member of First Presbyterian Church and her beloved PEO chapter (BF).

Joan was a talented painter who graciously gave away both paintings and painting tips. She opened her home to any and everyone who needed a loving and friendly place with a good listener and, when asked, advice-giver.

Joan is survived by her treasured sister Leah and husband John Wittich, formerly of DeLand, her three children. Carter and Suzy of DeLand and Elliott, of Ormond by the Sea, two loving grandsons, Jesse, of Daytona Beach and Josh (Carlie) of Tampa, one great granddaughter, and a large extended family . Her beloved brother, Carter Elliott, passed on several years ago.

Per her wishes, instead of a funeral, a tea party will be held on August 23, at 3:30 in Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church, DeLand. Guests are asked to bring a favorite teacup or mug.

In lieu of flowers please send contributions to The Neighborhood Center of West Volusia, 434 S. Woodland Blvd., DeLand

Condolences or memories may be shared with the family online through Deltona Memorial Funeral Home, www.deltonamemorialfuneralhome.com