Kama Margaret Smith Cleveland

Kama Margaret Smith Cleveland, age 87, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2024, surrounded by her four daughters in Melbourne, Florida.
Born on December 2, 1937, Kama dedicated much of her life to education of others and nurturing her family. She was a respected Home Economics teacher at Smethport Area Jr Sr High School until her retirement in 2002.
Kama is survived by her daughters Beth Cleveland, Carol Cleveland, Amy (John) Hellman, and Sara (Derek) Nolek; her sister Leah Diane Kerchinski; and grandchildren Chris, Lee and Megan Colley, Devin and Nicole Hellman, and Genevieve and Ian Nolek.
She was preceded in death by her husband Lee Walter Cleveland; her granddaughter Elizabeth Marie Reynolds; her parents Elinore and Leigh Smith; and her brothers Ross and Glenn Smith.
A graduate of Olean High School and the University of Buffalo, Kama was a lifelong learner who imparted her knowledge and passion for home economics to countless students over her decades-long teaching career. She was also a devoted member of the United Methodist Church of Smethport, where she engaged actively in community and church activities.
Kama's hobbies included cooking, baking, sewing, and knitting, each of which reflected her love for creating and sharing with others. Her life was a testament to her roles as a teacher, mother, and wife, enriching the lives of those around her with her skills and compassion. After retirement she enjoyed spending time with her golden retriever, Benny and traveling the world with her close group of friends.
A private ceremony for immediate family will be held at her final resting site in Fairmont Cemetery, next to her loving husband ("Walt") of 37 years, with a celebration of life planned in Smethport later in the spring, her favorite time of year.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude or the United Methodist Church of Smethport in her memory: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital The United Methodist Church of Smethport