Amy Smith

Amy Smith, 76, of Sylva, NC passed away on Friday, December 23, 2016. Amy was born in Savannah, GA on May 12, 1940, to the late Dr. Albert J. and the late Margaret Kelley. After graduation from the Chatham County School System, Amy attended and graduated from the University of Mississippi with a BA Degree in Elementary Education. Her years of service in her field of study included elementary schools in Lambert, MS, Umatilla, FL, and Highlands County Florida. She also taught two different Christian Pre-K programs in Eustis, FL and Cattaraugus, NY. Amy continued her education at Nova University, where she obtained her MS degree in Special Education and taught in that field for a number of years. Amy was married for 53 years to Calvin Smith who continues to live in Sylva. She was preceded in death by her father and mother, two brothers, Peter and James, and a sister Barbara. She is survived by her husband, and three daughters, Kelley Thompson (Tim) of Sebring, FL, Margaret Howell, of Sylva, NC, Arrah Blount (David) of Chesapeake, VA and 7 grandchildren Sarah Rayburn, Andre Stevenson, Cody Rayburn, Gavin Thompson, Slade Thompson, DJ Blount, and Mason Howell. Amy was an avid square dancer and loved forming a square with old friends as well as participating as a mentor in beginning classes. She was a member of Pisgah Promenaders of Waynesville and several clubs in Florida before retiring to the mountains of NC. She worked with other members of the community on opening The Appalachian Women's Museum and served as ta board member for several years. She also served as an Usher at the Bardo Preforming Arts Center at Western Carolina University. Per her wishes Amy's body will be cremated. There will be a Celebration of her Life Ceremony to honor her. The date and time will be announced as soon as arrangements are finalized. In lieu of flowers, Amy wished that donations be made to The Appalachian Women's Museum in Dillsboro, NC. Checks can be made out to The Appalachian Women's Museum and sent to PO Box 245 Dillsboro, NC 28725. Donations can also be made online at www.appwm.org Please indicate that donations are made in memory of Amy Smith.