Joanne Marie Smith Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

ADRIAN – Joanne Marie Smith, age 87, of Adrian, passed away Sunday, February 25, 2018, at Gaslight Village Assisted Living. She was born on October 13, 1930 in Adrian to Richard D. Frye and Thelma (Becker) Frye Green. She graduated from Adrian High School in the class of 1948. Joanne earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree from the University of Michigan and a Master’s Degree in Education from Adrian College. On June 19, 1952 she married Gerald R. Smith. They were married for 63 wonderful years but were a part of each other’s lives for 72 years before his passing in 2015. Joanne was employed by the Adrian Public Schools as an elementary teacher, retiring in 1993. She was a member of the University of Michigan Alumni Association, Alpha Delta Pi U of M Chapter, life member of MEA, Lenawee County Historical Museum, past member of Bixby Hospital Auxiliary and American Association of University Women. She is survived by her four children: Arlene M. Endres (Patrick) of Bel Air, Maryland; David D. Smith (Connie) of Fairfield, Ohio; Timothy J. Smith (Cassandra) of Sarasota, Florida; and Carolyn J. Chesney (John) of Naples, Florida; brothers, Richard D. Frye (Leslie) of Vashon Island, Washington and Thomas Frye (Bonnie) of Jackson, Tennessee; aunt, Kathryn Wolcott, and special cousin, Joan Poling (Don), both of Adrian. Joanne enjoyed her eight grandchildren; James F. Ryley III (Mei), Jessica S. Ryley Hammond (Scott), Adrienne M. Endres DeRan (Craig), Melissa A. Smith Arrington (Keenan), Matthew J. Smith, Taylor M. Fulford (Jesse), Daniel J. Chesney and Sarah E. Chesney; and six great grandchildren, Luke Hammond, Benjamin DeRan, Savanah DeRan, Charlee Arrington, Franklyn Arrington and Chesney Fulford. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband. A memorial celebration will take place on Sunday, May 27th, 2018, from 1-4 PM at Wagley Funeral Home. Joanne's passion for teaching was present throughout her life; and her family welcomes and encourages her former students to join them in celebrating her life. Contributions in Joanne’s memory are suggested to the Lenawee County Historical Museum or Hidden Lake Gardens. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home where online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com.

Joanne Marie Smith

October 13, 1930 - February 25, 2018