Miriam Allen Irvine Newcomb

SOUTHINGTON - Miriam Allen Irvine Newcomb, born on March 19, 1921, in Wilawanna, Pa., died peacefully at Southington Care Center in Southington.

Miriam is survived by her devoted daughter, Susan Smayda and husband, John, of Southington; loving grandchildren, Benjamin Kupferschmid, of Cantonsville, Md., and Carolyn Kupferschmid, of Bethlehem, Pa.; great-grandson, Luis Kupferschmid Santiago; and several nieces and nephews. Miriam was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Gail Kupferschmid Kriebel; her husband, G. Walter Irvine; second husband, Harold Newcomb; and her brother, Edwin Allen. She had a large extended family including her son-in-law, Bob Kriebel, of Bethlehem, Pa., Bob's children and grandchildren; Greg and Kelly Smayda, of Tolland, Tom and Lisa Smayda, of Palmer, Alaska; and the Newcomb, Pyle and Bertrand families. Miriam was an active member of Nichols United Methodist Church for 57 years she sang in the choir for many years was a member of Nichols United Methodist Women and was the church historian for 12 years. Miriam was an accomplished pianist, she graduated from Fredonia State College (NY) with a bachelor of science in music and continued her education at the University of Bridgeport were she received a master's degree in early childhood education. She taught music in public schools in New York State for four years and was a kindergarten teacher in Trumbull, for 17 years. Miriam (Mims to her friends and family) found delight in the company of her good friends from Nichols. Mims traveled the world she rode a camel in front of the pyramids, visited the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and saw Iguassu Falls in Argentina. She enjoyed playing bridge, hosting dinner parties, going out to dinner and spending time with her family.

Mims wanted to thank all of the caregivers at Southington Care Center who helped make her last years comfortable. All who knew her were impressed by her never-ending cheerful disposition. Her gracious, loving, and generous spirit will remain in our hearts forever.

Family and friends are invited to attend a service in her memory on Saturday, July 13, at 11 a.m. at the Nichols United Methodist Church in Nichols, with Pastor Joseph Piccirrilo officiating. There will be no prior calling hours. For online condolences please visit http://www.dennisanddarcy.com/ In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the charity of your choice.