Cecelia Smith Obituary
Cecelia Mae Smith, 84, of Rochester, NH, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, surrounded by the family she cherished. A woman of deep faith and boundless creativity, Cecelia devoted her life to serving others and left a lasting legacy of kindness across generations.
Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Cecelia graduated from Anacostia High School with the class of 1959. At 15 she met her one and only love, Jesse Robert Smith; they were married in 1959 and shared 66 years together. Cecelia went on to earn her PHT, (putting her husband through school). In 1978 she was recognized as an Outstanding Young Woman of America.
The couple relocated to New Hampshire in 1969 and, in 1975, were called to serve as pastor and pastor’s wife of First Baptist Church of Greater Rochester in Gonic. Together they ministered to the Rochester community for more than 40 years, sharing a message of love and faith.
Cecelia’s life was defined by “Christian Kindness.” Whether assisting with city services (City of Rochester), caring for patients as a CNA with Rochester/Rural VNA, recommending books at the Rochester Public Library, or serving as a Foster Grandparent in her daughter’s first-grade classroom at McClelland Elementary for over 15 years, she lived her faith through compassionate action. Known affectionately as the town “Grandma” and to many as the legendary “Foster Gram,” Cecelia welcomed everyone with an open heart and thoughtful attention.
She is survived by her husband, Reverend Jesse Smith of Rochester; children Steven Smith (Marguerite) of Rochester; David Smith (Candy) of Rochester; Davita Fortier (Robert) of Rochester; and Tamara Schafer (Ernest) of Rochester; 22 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Cecelia’s “move on to Glory” on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Greater Rochester, 25 Church Street, Rochester:
Calling Hour: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Memorial Service: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Fellowship: A reception with food and shared memories will follow at the church. Graveside Committal: May 23, 2026In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause dear to Cecelia and Jesse for its support of children and families in need.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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86 S. Main Street, Rochester, NH 03867
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