June A. Smith

“Grandma June” A. Smith passed with peace and grace into Heaven on February 11, 2017 with her loving sons and eldest grandson at her side. She now reunites with her beloved husband Frederic G. Smith, who preceded her to Heaven in 1978. Born in Nyack, NY on May 20, 1938, she attended the Kings College in Briarcliff Manor, NY where she met Fred. The two were married and moved to Plain City, OH where they dedicated their energy into serving Christ and teaching children. As a highly regarded teacher for over 35 years, she made an impact on and helped shape countless lives. She spent most of her teaching years at the Fairbanks school district in Milford Center, OH where she often referred to her colleagues and students as her “family”. She retired to Loves Park, IL in 2004 to be close to her six beloved grandchildren, who were the focus of her later years. Her greatest passion was spending time with her grandchildren to whom she loved to read and with whom she loved to bake. Those she leaves behind will remember always the example she provided of endurance through good times and bad with a confident and unwavering faith in God that guided her every decision and action.

She is survived by her sons, Jim (Cheri) Smith and Gordon (Danielle) Smith; her grandchildren, Jack, Kate, James, Meg, Mckenna, and Aidan; her siblings, Ted (Karen) Wessman and Karin (Flip) Sullivan; in-laws, Rev. Dr. Chuck (Pat) Stenner; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Predeceased by her husband, Frederic, and parents.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at First Free Church. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her honor to the American Diabetes Association or to First Free Rockford Missions. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com