Mary Jane Smith

Mary Jane Smith, 75, of Gilbertsville, PA, passed away peacefully at home on May 29, 2026, after courageously battling the effects of multiple sclerosis for over 30 years. She was surrounded by the comfort of her loved ones.

Born on August 24, 1950 in Allentown, PA, Mary Jane was the daughter of the late Ralph H. Smith Sr. and Helen K. Smith (Zuber). She spent her early childhood in Catasauqua alongside her three siblings, Nancy K Boettner (Smith), Ralph H Smith. Jr., and David F. Smith. In the 1960's, the family relocated to Gilbertsville, where Mary Jane attended Boyertown Area Senior High School. She excelled academically and graduated with the class of 1968. Mary Jane continued her education at Kutztown University, earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s plus 60 degree in early childhood education. Her passion for learning led her to a distinguished career in education spanning more than three decades. The majority of Mary Jane's teaching career was spent at New Hanover Upper-Frederick Elementary School, where she taught second grade. She was a beloved educator whose patience, kindness, and enthusiasm for learning left a lasting impact on generations of students.

Mary Jane took great pride in helping her students build confidence and discover the joy of learning. She cherished

the many friendships she formed with fellow teachers and staff throughout her years in education. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, touching countless lives and helping to shape the minds of the children she taught.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary Jane was a devoted daughter, sister and aunt who treasured her family. She shared a special bond with her siblings, nieces, great nieces and

nephews, and extended family, creating memories that will be forever cherished.

Even in the face of a difficult illness, Mary Jane maintained her positive outlook, inspiring her family and friends and all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she

created and the lives she touched will never fade. Her legacy lives on in the family and friends she loved and the countless students whose lives were enriched by her teaching, guidance and

her belief in their potential.

Mary Jane was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph H. Smith, Sr. and Helen K. Smith (Zuber), and by her beloved sister, Nancy K. Boettner (Smith). She is survived by her brothers, Ralph H. Smith Jr., and his wife Dianne W. Smith (White) of Gilbertsville, and David F. Smith and his wife Farah Smith (Fonseca) of Collegeville; her cherished nieces, Alyssa L. Moyer (Smith) and her husband Brent E. Moyer of Gilbertsville; and Sarah E. Murray (Smith) and her husband

Jeffrey Murray of Gilbertsville and her niece Jennifer Boettner and nephew Matthew Boettner. Mary Jane also has five beloved great-nieces, Maddie, Hannah, Abigail, Leah and Emily and three great-nephews; Ben, Colin and Jacob. She also leaves behind her wonderful caregiver for the last fifteen years, Carol Cole.

Visitation with family and friends will be held at Linwood W. Ott Funeral Home, Inc. 111 N. Reading Avenue Boyertown Pa 19512, on Friday, June 12, 2026 from 10:00am until 11:00a. A funeral service will follow, beginning at 11:00am. Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in memory of Mary Jane. www.nationalmssociety.org