Emma B. Smith ("Emmy"), 77, passed away Thursday morning February 22, 2024, in Sarasota, FL. Emmy was born to Clifton and Eleanor Bagley on July 23, 1946 in New York, New York. She grew up in Scarsdale, New York, graduated from Scarsdale High School and then moved west to attend Denver University. It was there that she met the love of her life on a blind date. After graduation, she married James Smith ("Schmitty" as he was affectionately called my Em) in 1969 and they were both offered teaching jobs. Following the wedding, they relocated to Burlington, Vermont in pursuit of their educational vocations and finally settled in Colchester. Most importantly, she spent every summer of her entire life at her happy place, Martha's Vineyard. The family home in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts was first built in 1886 and was definitely her favorite place on earth. She welcomed so many friends and family to experience the island, stay at the house and fall in love with Martha's Vineyard. If you stayed with Emmy, you would be guaranteed an island tour all the way to Aquinnah. In 2019, the retired couple finally left Vermont and became snow birds in Venice, Florida near the beach to enjoy life to the fullest. Emmy's presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her and even some who didn't. As an organ donor, her eyes are being used for research.
Emmy was a caring, accepting, and loving individual. She was described as a quiet force, determined, and a good listener. Her presence was welcoming, selfless, and sharing, making her like a second mom to many. She was actively involved as a girl scout leader, a gardener, a cross-country skier, a party host, and an avid traveler. Emmy found joy in beachcombing, taking photographs, and admiring sunsets. Emmy was known for her motherly love, optimistic nature, and cheerful disposition. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandma, supportive friend, and an incredibly impactful soul.
Once featured in the nationally syndicated Ann Landers column titled 'Young mom sends thanks to good Samaritan'. A mom and her two young kids were stuck at Burlington, Vermont airport when their flight got canceled and wrote in to thank a stranger named Emma Smith. "You helped me think through various options and waited with us while I gathered my suitcase, then you drove us to the ferry that would take us to Plattsburgh, NY, just a short trip to my mom's house. This was truly above and beyond the call of a good neighbor. You exemplify the true spirit of a good Samaritan. Someday, when my children are grown and I see a young mother in distress, I will remember you, Emma , and pass the favor on." - Jackie Parks 4/10/1999
Emmy had a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher and was the creator of the reading program in Burlington, Vermont. As they started a family, she committed her time to being a stay-at-home mom raising Jessica and Jamie. Emmy enjoyed following and supporting her husband and children's athletic pursuits. She was their #1 fan. There was not one soccer or basketball game that she missed during her childrens' playing years. As her children matriculated to college, Emmy found her love of hosting and placing exchange students from all over the world. As an empty nester, she returned to teaching and supporting Title I literacy programs in Colchester, Vermont.
In 2007, Emmy became a grandmother for the first time and absolutely loved being "Grandma". Grandma and Grandpa would spend the month of April in San Diego with both grandkids teaching them the Easter traditions of painting eggs, putting out baskets, chocolate candy and egg hunts. She always sent the grandkids cards, candy and gifts, not only for birthdays and Christmas, but for any holiday.
She is survived by her husband of 55 years, James Smith ("Schmitty"); her daughter Jessica Smith and son Jamie Smith; her grandchildren Nolen Abdullah and Eva Smith, as well as many other family members and friends. She is predeceased by her parents Clifton and Eleanor Bagley and her sister Midge Marshall.
Emmy's life will be celebrated in a ceremony at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her name can be made to the Sheriff's Meadow Foundation. The foundation's mission is to conserve the natural, beautiful, rural landscape and character of Martha's Vineyard (Emmy's happy place) for present and future generations. Donations can be made online, by mail, or wire. For more information, please visit www.sheriffsmeadow.org.