Mary Ann Smith

Mary Ann Smith, 84 passed away peacefully at Yale New Haven Hospital Smilow Cancer Center surrounded by her loving family. Mary Ann was born in Bridgeport, CT on April 1, 1941, the middle child of the late Mary and Charles Ember. A Stratford High School graduate, Mary Ann began her career at AVCO Lycoming were she met her future husband Russell and together built a loving family over their 63-year marriage. A stop at Gimbels Department store proceeded her decision to becoming a full-time homemaker devoted to raising her two children. They resided in Shelton, CT before making the move across country to Phoenix, AZ until retirement brought them to Pompano Beach, FL where they spent the last 17 years enjoying beach life and making treasured new friends.

She is survived by her beloved husband Russell Smith; her cherished children, a daughter Sandra Dietrich of Cheshire, CT, son Gregg Smith of Wallingford, CT; grandchildren Eric Dietrich (wife Sierra) of Jupiter, Florida, Kevin Dietrich of Cheshire, CT, Mark Dietrich (wife Tayla) of Southington, CT, Danielle Dietrich (fiancé Cole) of Raleigh, North Carolina; a great granddaughter Charlotte Dietrich of Jupiter, Florida; brother Robert Ember of Trumbull, CT, brother-in-law Robert Smith of Milford, CT along with several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Charles Ember, sister-in-law Joan Ember and brother-in-law Allen Smith.

Mary Ann was best known as being a devoted, caring and loving wife, mother and grandmother to her family. She loved every minute spent watching her grandchildren grow up playing baseball, basketball, football, swimming or just hanging out playing cards. She enjoyed relaxing with her husband and family at the pool or beach, shopping, attending theater performances, traveling or just visiting with friends. Her warm smile lit up the room and will be missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to thank the medical doctors, nurses and aides at the Smilow Cancer Center and Honeybee homecare (Zee) for the exceptional care they provided to her.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home 615 South Main Street (RT10), Cheshire, CT.