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Mary Smith Obituary
Mrs. Smith was born July 19, 1957 in Charlotte. She was a member of Northside Baptist Church where she was a member of the church choir and taught Sunday school. She was a 1975 graduate of West Mecklenburg High School where she was on Homecoming Court. She graduated from Tennessee Temple University in 1981 with a degree in education. She was a college cheerleader and member of the Ladies Chorale and was a very active worker at Camp Joy in Chattanooga, TN. Mrs. Smith was a public school teacher and had taught at Community Baptist School and Wentworth Elementary School, both in Reidsville, NC, also at Northside Academy, Coulwood Junior High, and was currently teaching at Briarwood Elementary School in Charlotte. Mrs. Smith was a very dedicated Christian who loved children and was a devoted mother and wife.
Surviving are her husband, John Aaron Smith; children, Michelle Howell, Christen Howell, Blair Howell and Collin Smith, all of Charlotte; parents, Fred and Dolly Blair of Charlotte; sisters, Debra Blair van Dam of Charlotte and Bobbie Blair Slayton of Reidsville, NC; and brothers, Jimmy Blair of Chattanooga, TN and Jackie Blair of Weatherford, TX.
The family asks that memorials be made to Northside Christian Academy, 333 Jermiah Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28262.
Arrangements by McEwen Funeral and Cremation Service, Charlotte Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Smith
Sue Griffith Foss
October 14, 2002
Dear Michelle, Christen, Blair, the Blair Family, and the Howell Family,
It is with a saddened heart that I write to express to all of you the love and fondness that I have always felt for Mary. The last time I was with Mary was when we were at the swimming pool at the Howell's home in Winston-Salem. We talked and laughed together for several hours. She shared with me her love and devotion for her family and the vision she had for them. I loved to hear her sing as she so often did praising the Lord. The Lord blessed her with so many talents, but her greatest blessing of all was her family. I know the depth of your sorrow and trust that the love, compassion, support and prayers of family and friends will sustain you during these difficult times.
Sue Griffith Foss & Edward L. Foss
Milan, Italy
Teri Kennedy
October 7, 2002
Dear Michelle, Christen, Blair and Collin,
There is not a Mother on this earth who loved their children anymore than your Mother.You were her life. She counted you, as her Blessings from God. She wanted to give you all she could give you NO MATTER what it cost her. She was determined to see that you all got a Christian Education from Northside Christian because she thought it was the best. God has answered her prayers many times through wonderful loving people who helped her pay the school bills and she was always so very grateful. Mary taught her children to love the Lord. Hundreds of times I heard Mary cry out to the Lord for her children. She trusted them. She had high expectations of them. She encouraged them. She served them in every possible way she could, daily. She loved their friends, and their friends were always welcomed in their home. Mary Blair LOVED CHILDREN! All CHILDREN!!! She recognized God's potential in every single child and found something unique to love and cherish in every child. She loved her children with all her heart, unconditionally.
Mary had a broken heart,when a situation in her life did not turn out the way she had planned and dreamed.Grief over took her to the point her heart was just broken!!! Mary was so hurt. She just wanted to be loved the way she loved. But never one time did she ever blame God for anything. Instead she ran to God for comfort and peace. Mary loved Jesus. Mary was the most forgiving person I have personally ever known in my life. She taught me to forgive...even when you are hurt so bad. Grace! "Where is the Grace she would say!" Jesus forgives and so should we she would say. There are private things between the two of us that I would not be able to publicly share, but until the day Jesus takes me away from here... I will never forget Mary's words of forgiveness and compassion towards thoes who hurt or offended her. She amazed me!
She loved her parents so much. She would lay down her life for them. Her Daddy was the "Man of Her Life" and her Mama was the "Woman whom she so respected!" Her sister's and brothers were so precious to her and she found such pleasure talking about them and loving them. Mary was so PROUD of them.
Mary was my friend. Real friend. True friend. I will profoundly miss her and I must admit it is so difficult to believe she is gone. But I am so Glad that I KNOW for sure she is in HEAVEN! Singing, walking the streets of gold, peaceful, waiting for the rest of us to meet her. I was blessed to have a close friendship with Mary. Her memory will always live in my heart, forever. I love you Mary.
Thurman and Lou Howell
October 7, 2002
Dear Michelle, Christen, and Blair,
Our hearts are grieving with you over the loss of your dear Mom. She loved you all so very much and we know that you have many precious memories to keep in your hearts. Cherish these memories! We pray for you daily that the Lord will comfort you with the knowledge that your Mom is so happy with Jesus in heaven; that He will give you strength to meet each new day; and, that you will all three live faithfully for the Lord Jesus Who loves you and gave His life for you.
We pray, too, that God will comfort your Nana and Papa Blair, your aunts and uncles, and your cousins. We know your Mom loved them all so much.
We love you dearly and want to do anything we can to help you through these difficult times.
Grandma and Papaw Howell
Isaiah 41:10
Mary Ann Haskett
October 4, 2002
Michelle, Christen, Blair and Collin, I'm praying especially now that the Lord surrounds you with his love and support during this time. Mary Ann
Rev. Tim Hicks
October 3, 2002
My sincere sympathy to the Blair family. My thoughts are with you in this time of sorrow. From an old friend at Tennessee Temple.
Patricia Lefler
October 2, 2002
Dear Family:
I just found out about the death of Mary this past Sunday. It was so shocking and I am so sorry I was unable to give my condolences in person. I have fond memories of your mother's first year teaching at Northside Christian Academy and enjoyed teaching you,, Kristen, in second grade. My family and I will keep you in our prayers as you go through this difficult time in your lives.
Phil and Pat Lefler
Kim Abernathy
October 2, 2002
The entire Eagles Nest neighborhood is grieving with your family. We stood as a community ready to offer any assistance we could the day of the accident. My sincere sympathy to Mrs. Howell's family, especially her daughter that was with her that day. May your cherished memories of your Mom help to bring you comfort. The sadness that you're feeling is felt by others, too. May God bless you and keep you.
Lynda Reimer
October 2, 2002
Michelle, Christen, Blair and Collin - (and the entire family) - It just doesn't seem possible that we will no longer see Mary around here at Northside or calling on the phone. She is in heaven with our dear Lord and some day (soon I hope!) we will meet again. I have many fond memories of Mary during Passion Play. Those were fun times, waiting in the wings dressed in costume. She always enjoyed having Blair in the Passion Play too. Michelle, I can tell you are going to be a very responsible big sister - so caring for your sister and brothers. Christen, I miss seeing you every day since I left C wing office. But you can come and visit me in the church office now. Blair, I can not believe how grown up you are now! You will be a good example to your little brother. Little Collin is such a sweetheart and looks like his big brother, Blair. We will be praying for you and just want you to know that we love you all very much. Lynda Reimer
Judy Morrill
October 1, 2002
Dear Blair and family,
My heart grieves over your recent tragedy. Blair, I was privileged to teach you for two years and always loved your mischievous smile. God is going to use you in a big way. My prayers and love are with you. Love, Miss Morrill
Carol Crowley
September 30, 2002
As many were, so was I, overwhelmed with grief and tears as my son told me the tragic news. We have known Mary and Blair for many years. I was somewhat comforted by this verse: "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things will have passed away." Revelation 21:4
(No more worries, fears, or tears)
I sat with Mary at Blair and Chris'(My son) football game on Thursday 9/19 never realizing it would be the last time we would sit together at one of the games she loved to go to. She was very proud of Blair and his athletic talents. She said he was destined to be one of the greats! We spoke about our kids and our faith. Mary said "I don't care what anyone else thinks about me. I know what I am, and I know where I am going when I die."
There is comfort in knowing that she is in heaven. It is painful for her family, and each of her children, her dear parents,husband, and family members. We share in your sorrow.. Each of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Blair, we love you... you are welocme at our home anytime. God Bless each you that He help you through this sorrow. Mary was proud of you girls, Blair, and smitten over Collin. She loved you very much.If there is anything I can ever do, please call me.
Sincerely,
Carol and Dan, Chris, Alex, and Kelli Crowley
"She touched everyone she met with her grace and charm"
Anthony Barringer
September 30, 2002
Christen, and Blair you two are in my prayers. I have known Blair for a long time and he always talked good about his mother. So I could tell then that she was a very good lady. I dont know Christen that well but I know that her senior friends will greet her back accordingly. I will meet Blair back the same way. And Blair if you or Christen ever need a shoulder to lean on and just cry out I am here for you. I will be that person that you can come to if you need anything. I Love you guys!!! Anthony Barringer #5
CVS/PHARMACY LITTLE ROCK RD
September 27, 2002
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Blair have been our customers for many years and we are so sorry to hear about your loss. We know this is an extremely difficult time for the entire family. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Terry Wentzel
September 27, 2002
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to the Blair family in the tragic loss of Mary. She was a dear friend in high school and will be greatly missed.
Terry Wentzel
LaDonna Barrier
September 27, 2002
Michelle, Christen, and Blair, and Family,
I am shocked and saddened by this tragedy. Mary and I did our student teaching together while attending Tennessee Temple University. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Psalm 37:3-5,7
Monte Stratton
September 26, 2002
My deepest sympathy to the family.
I remember Mary as a vibrant person.
Kelly Cooper
September 26, 2002
I worked with Christen when she came in to the emergency room on Monday night as a result of this accident. I have been thinking about your family ever since. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. Good luck to you Christen, I wish you the best.
Gary and Sherry Peters
September 26, 2002
Please know our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. Mary was a friend from our days together at Tennessee Temple University.
Teri Ward
September 26, 2002
Mary was such a joy-filled lady - filled with the love of the Lord. She always had a ready testimony about what her Lord was doing or had done. She was down to earth and never met a stranger. I met her while I was going to Northside and she was one that was always friendly. Her heart was truly as big as her smile. Her conversation was filled with love for her beautiful children. She felt so blessed to have you all and made it known. Mr. and Mrs. Howell, thank you for raising such a beautiful daughter. I praise the Lord for the opportunity I had to know her. It is very comforting during these times to know she is with our precious Lord and Savior and we will see her again. I am praying for His peace and His comfort and mostly His love to fill your hearts daily. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Carol Newton
September 26, 2002
I worked with Mary in the money room on Panther game days at Ericsson Stadium a couple of years ago. She was always so "up-beat"--always smiling. Please accept my condolences in your loss. With deepest sympathy, Carol Newton
Clara & Gene Peterson
September 25, 2002
We were so sad to hear of the death
of Mary. We remember her and the
Blair family when we went to Northside. Our son, Gregg told us
today of your loss. Our prayers are
with the family.
Jim Cofield
September 25, 2002
Very sorry to hear of Mary's sudden and tragic home-going. My prayers are with her family.
Nick and Kim Holley
September 25, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We loved your mom and will miss her joyous spirit.
Phillip & Maria Welch
September 25, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary. Mary lived across the street from us in Huntersville for several years before moving. Our family felt very close to her. Our hearts are heavy at your great loss. If we can assist in any way please let us know.
Brenda Price Teague
September 25, 2002
Phil and I want you all to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this very sad and difficult time. We remember Mary as a very beautiful and happy young girl in high school.
Our love to you all.
Brenda and Phil Teague
Jackie (Sherrill) Wentzel
September 25, 2002
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the Blair family in the loss of Mary and in particular to Bobbie. My thoughts are with you.
Sincerely, Jackie
Kimberly
September 25, 2002
Mary was one of the first people to befriend me at Northside. Over the years she went out of her way to speak and be social. I will miss her radiant smile.
Bronwyn Ellis Long
September 25, 2002
My thoughts & prayers are with your family at this time. I was a friend of Mary's a long time ago. We cheered together at West Meck Optimist. I have many fond memories of Mary. May God bless you always.
Felicia Day-Hinson
September 25, 2002
I wish to express my sympathy to Mary's family and her children for their loss of a very special spirit. She was a treasure to those lives she touched. She will be sorely missed.
Uncle Keith and Aunt Cynthia Howell
September 25, 2002
Michelle, Christen, and Blair we love you very much. All of you, along with your Nana and Papa Blair, and other Aunts and Uncles will be in our thoughts prayers! Please know that we will always be here for you...and are so sorry for your loss!
Amber Goode
September 25, 2002
Michelle and Christen, you're in my thoughts and prayers.
Tony & Kim Taylor
September 25, 2002
Our prayers go out to the Howell family. May God comfort you during this very difficult time. We are going to miss seeing her pretty smiles on game day.
We Love you guys.
- Tony,Kim,Chase and Conner
Renee Moore Mauney
September 25, 2002
Mary Blair Smith was a wonderful Jesus loving friend of mine! Iloved her so much and we had a beautiful friendship! The family is blessed to have such a wonderful daughter, sister, mother, and wife in Mary. Everytime I saw Mary I saw happiness and joy. I am so glad that she was in my life, I look forward to seeing her again in heaven. My heart is sad for the family, but Praise God she is now complete with the Lord.
If there is anything I can do...please let me know Renee
Tawanna Jones
September 25, 2002
My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends during this time.
dennie cashion
September 25, 2002
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I will always remember Mary with a smiling face. She was always so happy and a pleasure to be around. I'm sure she will be missed very much.
Phylia Smith
September 25, 2002
We are so very saddened by this tragedy. Our prayers are with you and we love you Blair and Christen. We are so grateful that Mary knew the Lord and is now in heaven. May you be comforted knowing you have so many that love you and are praying for you.
Elaine Scarborough
September 25, 2002
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Mary. I know she was well loved and will be greatly missed. To the family, you know how to contact me if there is anything I can do.
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