Louise Smith

Ithaca, NY October 1, 2022 Age 86

Louise Smith of Ithaca, NY died unexpectedly of natural causes on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at her assisted living residence. She was 86.

She was predeceased by her husband Sidney and son Schieffelin. She is survived by a daughter, Margarita (Kris), a son, Douglas (Andrea), and daughter-in-law, Susan. She is also survived by two sisters, Kathie and Anne, and six grandchildren, Cooper, Lily, Grace, Henry, Timothy, and William.

After studying physics at Smith College, Louise worked for seven years at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston, researching auditory physiology. She made lifelong friends at the lab. Louise met her husband, Sidney, during this time and fondly recalled snowshoeing on their first date.

Louise and Sidney lived in upstate New York and in the Boston area prior to moving to New Canaan, CT. In New Canaan, Louise was active at St. Mark's Church, Community Bible Study, and the annual Smith College book sale. She had a firm faith in the Lord from which she radiated sweetness and humility to others. She loved to correspond with friends acquired at all stages of her life. Some of her fondest memories included summers with extended family at her grandparents' farm in Maryland. Later in life, she enjoyed summers at her cottage in the Finger Lakes.

Always ready for a walk (typically wearing an L.L. Bean fleece), or a game of cards or Boggle, Louise led an active life. She traveled extensively, visiting every continent at least once. She loved wildlife, especially puffins. Highlights included a 10-week adventure in rural Pakistan and hiking the Milford Track in New Zealand.

She was an ardent fan of early rising, morning swims, scripture, prayer, routine, thrift, naps, oatmeal, pretzels, historical novels, National Geographic, and keeping a diary.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, November 20, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in New Canaan, CT.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a fund for brain cancer research established by her late son in gratitude for the care he received at Duke: The Schieffelin Smith Endowment 6119571 at Duke University, Box 90581, Durham, NC 27708.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bangs Funeral Home of Ithaca, NY. Online condolences may be made to Louise's family at www.bangsfuneralhome.com.