Mary Ellen Smith

Mary Ellen Smith died early Thanksgiving morning, November 22, 2018. She was 94 and succumbed after months of battling brain tumor. Mrs. Smith was born July 20, 1924 in Bellevue, Michigan. Her parents were Clarence and Florence Slade who had eight children. Mary Ellen was the last of this large family of children to pass on. Her family became farmers after the depression took down the family business, a large department store for its time. Her children heard stories of diligence and very hard work but always balanced by a love of the outdoors, neither of which ever left her. Her family moved into Lansing when Mary Ellen was 12. She was always an excellent student graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Central High School. While still in High School she met Jack D. Smith who she married in 1946. She gave birth to three children, Jack, Carolyn and Roger. Once her children were well established in local schools, she returned to work as an accountant for the State of Michigan. She worked for several departments, but her longest service was for the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. There are numerous commendations awarded throughout her time with the State agencies. The unexpected death of her husband Jack at 54, led her to retire early after 10 more years working. At that time grand children were coming into her life and she both adored those children but was also able to enjoy her lifelong appreciation for nature and being outdoors. Her favorite area to visit was Isle Royale. Mary Ellen’s love for her grandchildren caused her to equip her house with large and small toys, books, videos and creative material. Those seven children, Lindsay, Libby, Kate, Andrew, Amber and Ari; are now marrying and have great grandchildren. Her death was not unexpected after her diagnosis, but was still a shock, her family hoping for more time. Mary Ellen Smith held a deeply committed faith her entire life. As she finds peace with her Lord, she will be mourned by an ever growing family, friends and the congregation of her church, First Christian Church.

In lieu of flowers she would most wish a donation for the support of her loved church, First Christian Church, 1001 Chester Road, Lansing, MI 48912.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at the First Christian Church, 1001 Chester Road, Lansing, MI 48912. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Pastor Rick Boyd will be officiating.

The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Lansing Chapel. On-line condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com