Mary Elizabeth Smith (née Mary McDermott), age 68, passed away on October 25, 2025, in Stuart, Florida. Born on December 31, 1956, in New York, New York, she lived a life marked by compassion, service, and unwavering dedication to helping others.
Mary's early years were rooted in the Bronx, where she attended Ascension School and later graduated from Cardinal Spellman High School. Her calling to care for others led her to pursue nursing at St. Vincent's Nursing School in New York, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Registered Nursing. This foundation launched a lifelong career devoted to healing and support.
At the time of her passing, Mary was still actively working as a counselor and registered nurse at Futures Recovery Healthcare rehabilitation center in Tequesta, Florida. For over a decade, she served there with distinction, offering guidance and care to hundreds of individuals facing substance use disorder (SUD), co-occurring disorders, trauma, and primary mental health conditions. Her work left an indelible mark on countless lives and reflected her deep commitment to recovery and wellness.
Mary was also a dedicated member of Narcotics Anonymous for 40 years. Her journey through recovery became a beacon of hope for many. She was a well-known speaker at NA conferences and meetings across the country and around the world. Through her words and presence, she inspired transformation and healing in those who heard her story.
Her spiritual life was grounded in the Roman Catholic faith of her upbringing but evolved into a broader spiritual awakening centered on honesty, open-mindedness, willingness to change within, and service to others. These principles guided every aspect of her life.
Mary's love extended beyond people to animals as well. She was a devoted dog owner throughout her life and found joy and companionship in caring for them. Her beloved Boston Terrier, Daisy, held a special place in her heart.
She is survived by her brother John McDermott. She was preceded in death by her parents Albin and Catherine McDermott and her oldest brother Michael S. McDermott.
Mary was the loving wife of Gregory Smith who predeceased her.
A memorial service celebrating Mary's life was held on November 2, 2025, at Futures Recovery Healthcare in Tequesta, Florida.
Mary Elizabeth Smith will be remembered for the lives she touched through kindness, courage, and unwavering support. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her. A Memorial Gathering will be held on December 13, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 02:00 PM at First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Palm Beaches 635 Prosperity Farms Road. All are welcome to attend - family, friends, and co-workers.
Mary's early years were rooted in the Bronx, where she attended Ascension School and later graduated from Cardinal Spellman High School. Her calling to care for others led her to pursue nursing at St. Vincent's Nursing School in New York, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Registered Nursing. This foundation launched a lifelong career devoted to healing and support.
At the time of her passing, Mary was still actively working as a counselor and registered nurse at Futures Recovery Healthcare rehabilitation center in Tequesta, Florida. For over a decade, she served there with distinction, offering guidance and care to hundreds of individuals facing substance use disorder (SUD), co-occurring disorders, trauma, and primary mental health conditions. Her work left an indelible mark on countless lives and reflected her deep commitment to recovery and wellness.
Mary was also a dedicated member of Narcotics Anonymous for 40 years. Her journey through recovery became a beacon of hope for many. She was a well-known speaker at NA conferences and meetings across the country and around the world. Through her words and presence, she inspired transformation and healing in those who heard her story.
Her spiritual life was grounded in the Roman Catholic faith of her upbringing but evolved into a broader spiritual awakening centered on honesty, open-mindedness, willingness to change within, and service to others. These principles guided every aspect of her life.
Mary's love extended beyond people to animals as well. She was a devoted dog owner throughout her life and found joy and companionship in caring for them. Her beloved Boston Terrier, Daisy, held a special place in her heart.
She is survived by her brother John McDermott. She was preceded in death by her parents Albin and Catherine McDermott and her oldest brother Michael S. McDermott.
Mary was the loving wife of Gregory Smith who predeceased her.
A memorial service celebrating Mary's life was held on November 2, 2025, at Futures Recovery Healthcare in Tequesta, Florida.
Mary Elizabeth Smith will be remembered for the lives she touched through kindness, courage, and unwavering support. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her. A Memorial Gathering will be held on December 13, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 02:00 PM at First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Palm Beaches 635 Prosperity Farms Road. All are welcome to attend - family, friends, and co-workers.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mary Elizabeth Smith, please visit our flower store.
Mary Elizabeth Smith's Guestbook
Visits: 167
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors