Joann Caldwell-Smith

CALDWELL-SMITH Joann Caldwell-Smith, the beloved daughter of the late John, Marguerite and Luella Caldwell-Smith, departed this life on Saturday, January 21, 2006, after a long illness. She was born in Eskdale, W.Va., on July 17, 1959. Joann was a lifelong resident of Bridgeport for more than 35 years. She attended the Bridgeport School System. Later she earned a culinary arts certificate and was employed in this field for many years. After taking a leave of absence from her career to rear her children, Joann secured a retail position with Goodwill Industries. There she was honored with an award for her outstanding performance. Joann was a loving mother who adored her children. Nurturing them by spending quality time playing Barbie dolls, frequent trips to the library and cooking their favorite foods. Joann had a strong sense of family and often extended her home to relatives that were experiencing hard times. Her parents, John, Luella and Marguerite Smith predeceased her along with her oldest sister, Doreatha Smith. She leaves to cherish her memory a companion, John Young; four children, Jamar Ortiz of Bridgeport, Jamarra Ortiz of New Haven, Jessica and Jhana Young of New York. Joann was blessed with three grandchildren, Da'Ymarra, Da'Sharra Caldwell and Keharra Amado. Her siblings include, Sandra Timberlake, Sylvia Smith, John Smith Jr. and Michael Powers. She will also be missed by a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. The lester Gee Funeral Home, is in charge of arrangements. Calling hours are Tuesday, January 31, 2006 from 10 to 11 a.m. in The Lester Gee Funeral Home, 1390 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport. A service will follow at 11 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be in Park Cemetery.