Margaret "Peggy" Smith was born on May 4, 1923 in Monroe, Washington. She passed away peacefully at Crista Care Nursing Home on January 14, 2013. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and faithful friend, always there to listen, and to care. Peggy loved animals and kept several Pomeranian dogs as pets in her childhood. She was a talented musician, teacher, and educator. Peggy graduated from Snohomish High School and later from the University of Washington, where she was the majorette for the Husky Marching Band. Among her many talents she performed as timpanist for the Bremerton Symphony. Peggy and husband Paul first met at the Interlochen Summer Arts and Music camp in Michigan. They were married on December 23, 1947 at the University Methodist Temple in Seattle. They spent their honeymoon at Timberline Lodge, Mt. Hood, Oregon. Peggy also taught music classes in the Seattle School District. Peggy's baking skills were truly honed to perfection---her "from scratch" apple pie was by all accounts the best ever. These skills were also most in evidence around Christmas time; the family remembers how she cherished the Christmas traditions and her cookies and desserts were always exquisitely prepared for the occasion. Peggy loved outdoor sports and recreation and was an avid skier and ice skater. The family remembers the frequent weekend skiing trips with dad, mom, and the children to Stevens Pass and Snoqualmie in winters, and summer vacations on Lake Chelan. Later summers were spent with husband Paul in Hawaii. In addition to her loving devotion to family, which she held strongly above all other obligations, she also believed in the pursuit of lifelong learning. Even late in life she was still up to the task of studying about new techniques and hobbies, and the fine crafts and clothing she produced showed evidence of her skill, perseverance, and high artistic talents. Her family also well remembers the soothing tones she could coax from her Deegan marimba as well as her piano skills that so often contributed to happy family home evenings.
In her years as office manager for University Congregational Church, serving under Pastor Dale Turner, Peggy met many, young and old, some who relied upon her for friendly advice and guidance, or others who just desired a cheery “hello”. This was borne out of the experience of having been a mature parent, and an excellent listener, but also came from the ability to analyze and reflect as a true and caring friend. It was particularly the younger generations who could speak for Peggy’s knack and ability to set someone at ease and at peace with whatever their dilemma might have been. It is these attributes that her family will remember her for the most, as well as her care and devotion to her own family to which she held in the highest regard.
She is survived by the love of her life, best friend, and husband, Paul Smith, Jr.; 3 children, Tim, Polly, and Erin; 1 grandson, John Paul; and many extended family and friends.
Visitation services will be held on Sunday, January 20, 2013 from 1PM-3PM at Acacia Funeral Home's Viewing Suite, Seattle, WA. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11AM on Monday, January 21, 2013 at Crista Senior Living, Shoreline, WA.
Her laughter, her smile, her guiding hand. Those caring words and smile will be cherished forever.
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