Dolores (Dee) Smith left time spent on earth with family and friends on July 22, 2021, for eternity with her Savior Jesus Christ. Dee was born on April 25th, 1930, in Columbus Ohio to Charles G. and Dorothy W Schaefer.
After graduation from the Columbus School for girls, Dee attended Bryn Mawr College, but her eventual Bachelor’s degree in education from Hope College would be delayed until 1971, well after she married her beloved husband James B. Smith, and was raising their three children.
In 1966 Dee and her family left Columbus and moved permanently to their summer cottage in Macatawa Park, west of Holland. The first couple of years were somewhat of a trial and adventure as Dee and Jim became acquainted with Michigan winters, and slowly transformed the summer place into a year-round home. In 1975, Dee became the media specialist for the Holland Public School System and worked there for another 15 years. After retirement, Dee and Jim left Macatawa for Castle Park where they befriended the Canadian geese which occupy Tibby’s lake during the warmer part of the year. As the weather got colder in Michigan, Dee and Jim spent many winters in Melbourne Beach Florida, having fun swimming, fishing, playing games, and socializing with the other snowbirds in the Park where they stayed. Dee had an inquisitive mind which she exercised regularly with her book clubs and the HASP group in Holland.
Dee was a faithful friend and will be remembered for her wit, grit, and especially for her love of family. She was predeceased by her parents and husband Jim and is survived by her sons Jeff (Susan) and Chris (Cindy), and her daughter Dory (Tom) Sligh. Dee’s days were also made special and brightened by her seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
A family graveside will be Tuesday, July 27, 2021, in Graafschap Cemetery. A time of visitation will be Tuesday, July 27, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th ST. Holland. Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland. To leave condolence and more information, please visit www.langelandsterenberg.com.
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