Sylvia Smith

Sylvia (Smith) Smith, of Phoenix, passed away June 12, 2003 at the age of 78. Born Sylvia Townley Smith to a pioneer family, she was the granddaughter of W.R. Norton, founder of Sun-nyslope and the architect of many notable Arizona buildings, such as the Carnegie Library (now the Hall of Fame Museum) in downtown Phoenix. Her Fath-er, Arthur J. Smith, from Scotland, came to Arizona as a Scottish mining company official and CPA, and was also a widely known organist at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. Her Mother, Alice Smith, was a popular soloist in the Phoenix area. Sylvia attended the University of Arizona where she was a member of Pi Beta Phi Sorority, and was recipient of the Junior Scholarship Award by the University. She graduated in 1946 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Mag-na Cum Laude, and was awarded membership in Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi honoraries. She also did graduate work at both the University of Arizona and Arizona State University. Professionally, as a young woman, Sylvia was a local fashion model and held real estate and insurance licenses. Most recently Sylvia was employed for many years in the CPS division of the Attorney General's office. Sylvia was heavily involved in many civic organizations and leadership roles, including the Junior League of Phoenix, Chairman of the Phoenix Cotillion, past executive board member of St. Joseph's Hospital Auxiliary, founding member of the Visiting Nurse Service Auxiliary, Cactus Pine Girl Scout leader, member of Christ Church of the Ascension, and a member of both the State of Arizona Museum Guild and the Sunny-slope Historical Society. One of the many highlights of her life was her college and alumnae involvement in Pi Beta Phi Sorority and the wonderful relationships this provided, which she nurtured. Her dedication to this included the Chairmanship of the 1979 National Convention held in Phoenix, past President of the Phoenix Pi Beta Phi Alumnae club, recipient of their Angel Service Award in 1974 and the Province Service Award in 1985, as well as serving in many other capacities. Having both daughters also members of Pi Beta Phi was something Sylvia was especially proud of. Her family would like to thank the many special friends and relatives who have been such important parts of their lives. Sylvia was truly one of the most elegant and giving people her friends and family have ever known, always putting others comfort and enjoyment over her own. She loved celebrations and was able to participate in many just prior to her illness. Sylvia is preceded in death by her parents, Alice and Arthur Smith, her husband, Edward D. Smith, and is survived by her daughters, Sheral Smith James, and Lorraine Smith Bourgeois. Donations may be made to the University of Arizona Foundation/Sylvia T. Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o The University of Arizona Foundation, 1111 N. Cherry Ave., P.O. Box 210109, Tucson, AZ 85721-0109, Attn: Jim Ronstadt. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, June 21st, 10:30 AM at Christ Church of Ascension, 4015 East Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley. A celebration reception will follow.