On February 25, 2009 after a happy and full life, Gail Smith passed away peacefully into the waiting arms of her husband. Living with cancer did not take away her dignity, hope, faith or humor.
Gail was raised in Youngstown, Ohio. In 1964, she married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, John A. Smith. John preceded her in death on New Year's Day, 2004, one month shy of their 40th wedding anniversary. Together they shared a wonderful life filled with beautiful memories, great fun, some tears and a lot of laughter. Their son, John, Jr., also preceded them in death in 1975. They were together in life -- now forever in heaven.
Gail retired from Summa Health Systems in December, 2006, after 30 years of service. She was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, where she enjoyed singing in the choir, serving on various committees and church council. She also served on many committees professionally on the local and state level as well as within her community.
Gail considered her greatest accomplishments to be her children, Christine and Lenny Pizzute, Cindy and Mick Chrin and Brent and Michelle Smith. She was so very proud of all of them and thanked God each day for their love and devotion. The lights of her life were her grandchildren, Noah, Samuel, Isaac and Hannah Abigail Chrin, Macoy Pizzute and Anna Smith. She took pride in everything they did and took every possible opportunity to boast about them to anyone who would listen!!!
Love is not a strong enough word to describe the feeling she had for her children and grandchildren.
In Gail's words; "My children and grandchildren are every woman's answered prayers." To quote John, "They're perfect."
She also is survived by her brother, Dick McCracken of Canton, Ohio, Aunt Margaret Turner of Sebring, Ohio and best darn friend in the whole world, Dottie Schmith. "Thanks Dottie for all your love and support throughout our rollercoaster lives. Your friendship meant everything to me."
"For those I have loved and have loved me, thank you for the joy you brought into my life and the many acts of kindness and treasured memories. You were a comfort in my darkest hours and filled my days with hope, happiness and laughter. Don't grieve for me as I am in a happy place. Remember me once in a while."
Gail respectfully requested no memorials but suggest you take a moment to hug someone, tell them you love them and sign an organ donor card in her memory. As her husband was both an organ recipient and donor and her son now awaits a kidney transplant. This is a cause near and dear to her heart.
Friends may call Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m. at Redmon Funeral Home. Pastor Bill Michaels will conduct service Monday, 11 a.m. at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 158 North Avenue, Tallmadge. Mrs. Smith's video tribute will be available at www.redmonfuneralhome.com
(REDMON, STOW, 330-688-6631)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dottie Schmith
February 24, 2019
I miss you everyday my dear, dear friend. We will be together again to laugh, share and pick on each other!
Debbie Lytton-Anderson
March 11, 2009
I was very saddened to learn of Gails passing, but the Lord has so many wonderful things in store for her with Him. Gail touched my life in so many ways from simply being a friend to one of the women that helped to shape my Christian life. My condolences to the family and the family at St. Mark.
Carole Blair
March 5, 2009
I worked with Gail at Summa for many years and she was a joy to work with. Her love of life and family was an inspiration and when GOD says there are angels on earth - he was speaking of Gail. Now she will be the angel over your shoulder and the feather kiss on your cheek. Her gift of love, laughter and generosity will always be remembered. You will be in my prayers and thoughts.
Betty Stevenson
March 2, 2009
My deepest sympathy to all the family. Gail and I worked together in surgery and were in contact when she worked in Same Day. She always was pleasant and had a smile for everyone. She was truly a professional Nurse. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. May she rest in peace.
Debbie Schmith
March 2, 2009
My memories of Gail are full of laughter and fun. Gail, Johnny, Dottie and my Dad shared many great times together. Her friendship with Dottie is one that every woman should have in their lives. Now, 3 of them are together again...no telling what they're instigating in Heaven, but I bet they're having a ball! My heart goes out to all those who loved Gail and will miss her presence here in Earth. Love, Debbie
Lisa Fieldson-Fink
March 2, 2009
Cindy and Family,
I'm sorry to hear of your mother's passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.
MaryEllen Barry
March 2, 2009
I worked with Gail at Summa - she was always smiling! She talked about her wonderful family and had such a kind soul! She will be greatly missed! Certainly the love she gave to others will be forever alive in the hearts of so many others! My prayers and thoughts are with you at such a difficult time.
Cindi Tuck
March 1, 2009
Gail was a source of strength to so many of us, always having the best advise or just an ear for listening. She had so much love for everyone, always smiling and laughing! She will be missed.
Denise McCormick (Schmith)
March 1, 2009
I remember Gail as always happy and smiling - a truly fun person to be around. May God be with you at this difficult time. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted". Mark 5:4. Sincerely,
Sandi Bickett
March 1, 2009
I will cherish the memories of the special friendship we had working together at Summa. I will think of you often and remember you always.
Redmon Funeral Home Inc.
March 1, 2009
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Bonnie Butson
February 28, 2009
My friendship with Gail was much too short, but meaningful and so sweet. I will miss her very much. My heartfelt sympathy is extended to each member of her dearly beloved family.
christy boccia
February 28, 2009
We're so sorry for the loss of your mom. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Chris and Christy Boccia
Sue Pryor-Moore
February 28, 2009
Gail was a great classmate at W. Howard Nicol. Even though we had lost touch, she has always had a special place in my heart. My deepest condolences to the family.
Mary Angerstien
February 28, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Bill Sprague
February 28, 2009
We are truly sorry to hear of your loss. It is comforting to know that we have the chance to see them again in the paradise. We know that one day all pain, sickness, and suffering will be gone. May you find comfort in this.
Charice Fort (Summa-ACH)
February 27, 2009
My prayers go out to your family. 1Cor 15v54
Cam Jellison
February 27, 2009
I don't think I thanked you enough, when we pulled you out of choir that night. You were there and called the hospital for us when our son had his first of many seizures. An angel is all i can say.... I hope to be there for those in need as you have been. Our Nurse-NightenGail!
Linda West
February 27, 2009
We were lucky to be neighbors and get to know Gail. She always appreciated anything you did for her! She will be missed in our community! We will remember all her family in our prayers! Linda and Bill West
Akron
February 27, 2009
What a beautiful woman...treasure the memories that each of you have and hold them close to your hearts. May you feel her love as the sun warms you.
Scott Abram
February 27, 2009
You will be missed by all, Thank you for all of your time and hard work you gave to (AOTR). You were a wonderful person.
Carol Arbour
February 27, 2009
Gail was always there for everyone, especially my family in the illness of my mom. Whenver I called her, she was there. I can't imagine life without her, but I am glad that she is reunited with John, and am sure that she and mom are overseeing the birth of my first grandchild.... first hand... any day now. I admired so much the way she lived her life, always thinking of others and never herself, even in her darkest hours. She leaves a wonderful legacy for her adored children and grandchildren. Forever, peace and love.
Amy Cooper (Schmith)
February 27, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you all as your mom was a very special person who will be truly missed! Your parents' friendship meant alot to my dad! God bless you all and may you feel the Lord's loving arms around you.
Ervin and Patricia Tomas
February 27, 2009
You will be missed by your friends at Summa.
LINDA HERRON
February 27, 2009
WE ARE SO GLAD WE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF KNOWING YOU AND ENJOYING OUR CRUISE TIME TOGETHER. OUR DAUGHTER IS VERY LUCKY TO HAVE HAD A WONDERFUL MOTHER-IN-LAW LIKE YOU. YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS.
Dottie
February 27, 2009
My friend...always in my heart. Peace be with you.
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