Susan Smith passed away peacefully at her home on June 4th, 2023. Sue spent 93 wonderful years spreading joy to all around her. A comfort to many, Sue dedicated her time to taking care of her family, her friends, and her community.
Susan was born on October 10th, 1929 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania to Arthur and Esther Boote. Susan’s childhood home was full of life. She enjoyed spending time with her five siblings, taking part in neighborhood activities, and attending church regularly. She graduated from Meyers High School in 1947 and started her career. In the late 1950’s Susan took a leap of faith and moved with a close friend to Washington DC. She continued work as a bookkeeper at Producer’s Council and enjoyed travel and an active social life. Susan lived with three friends; the house was known for occasional loud parties where Susan would blast her record player.
Around this time, Susan met Russell Smith who worked alongside her at Producer’s Council. The two dated for several years before marrying in January of 1960. Over the years Sue and Russ built a full life and family in Vienna, Virginia. Their daughter, Janice was born in 1960, followed by their two sons, Russell Stephen in 1962, and Andrew in 1968. Susan was a dedicated mother and wife. She worked at and was very involved with Langley School while her son, Andy was a student.
Susan was a longtime member of The Church of the Holy Comforter. She valued connection with the church community and supported the church’s mission by regularly volunteering and bookkeeping at the church’s thrift store, Pennywise.
In retirement, Susan and Russ were avid world travelers. They visited the Mediterranean, Hawaii, Germany, China, Thailand, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Russia, Italy, and Alaska. Susan played a significant role in the lives of all 8 of her grandchildren. She never let a birthday go by without a card and a call to personally sing “Happy Birthday” to each of them. She hosted weeklong “Grandma camps” for her grandkids during the summer. She even let the grandkids drag her to the beach and on water park rides (as long as she had her shower cap).
Susan will be missed dearly by her family and friends. She is survived by her loving husband, Russell Wilmer Smith Jr; her brother, Fred Boote; her three children Janice LaBarge, Steve Smith, and Andy Smith; her eight grandchildren, Jenna, Kim, Jennifer, Ryan, Rachel, Cindy, Brady, and Cassie; and her three great-grandchildren, Mateo, Louie, and Evie.
Local Florists to Church
Vienna Florist & Gifts
431 Maple Ave
Vienna, VA 22180
703-242-6607
Karin’s Florist
527 Maple Ave, E.
Vienna, VA 22180
703-592-0952
Friday, June 16, 2023
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Church of the Holy Comforter
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