Jacqueline Denise Chastang Smith, 64, departed this life on August 4, 2019. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the fourth of seven children. She came to Orlando with the family in 1961 and has called it home for the past 58 years.
She was a graduate of Edgewater High School, Florida Southern College, and Rollins College. She began her career in education in 1979 at Walker Middle School as a Distributive Education and Computer Science teacher and received the Teacher of the Year Award in 1987 for her innovative teaching practices. As a pioneer in technology, she became one of the first Technology Support Representatives in the school system. She soon became Dean of Students and later was promoted to Assistant Principal. As an administrator who always made time to meet with students and parents about a concern, to solve a problem, or to offer praise for a job well done, Jackie was a role model to the faculty. She encouraged all who crossed paths with her to strive to be their best. Retiring after 38 years with Orange County Public Schools, her words of support and inspiration will never be forgotten.
Jackie found beauty in everyday things which was reflected by her cheerful nature. She enjoyed creating beautiful gardens at her home and found great pleasure in spending weekends at the beach with her family. She was a caring and devoted sister, wife, and mother, always striving to help and protect her loved ones. She is survived by her son Casey Smith and daughter Alexis Smith, both of Orlando; her mother Harriet Chastang, Lakeland; sisters Janine Callahan, Lakeland; Gerri Ferraro, Safety Harbor; Georgette Chastang, Conover, NC; and, brother Larry Chastang, Winter Garden; her adoring niece and faithful companion Amanda Callahan, Lakeland; and, 10 more loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 26 years, Alan R. Smith; her father, Clarence Chastang; sister Andrea Chastang, M.D.; and, brother Richard Chastang.
Jackie will be missed dearly and remembered forever by her family and friends. Her very good friends, Joan and Neftali Laboy, have been a big part of her life and will sorely miss her as well. Thank you, Jackie, for making this world a better place for all those who knew you.
A small gathering with family and close friends will be held in her honor.
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