Obituaries

Naomi L. Smith, 107 1/2 of Palmer Twp., PA died peacefully, Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Country Meadows, Forks Twp. with her daughter by her side. Born August 31, 1915 in Reading, PA she was a daughter of the late Ruth (DeTurck) and Frank Lash. She met her soul mate Wendell B. Smith in Texas, and they married on January 31, 1953. They both shared a love of antiques, gardening, canning fruits and vegetables, eating desserts, laughing, music, and serving their community.

In her prime, Naomi could name every flower, tree, bird, butterfly, insect and snake. She shared that knowledge as a Camp Fire leader for girls Grades 2 to 11. Taking great pride in her home and her appearance, she practiced yoga much to the embarrassment of her (then) teenage daughters and made her own yogurt before it was trendy. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Easton for almost 40 years and spent many hours in the kitchen making soups and pies for fundraisers. Due to her stylish dressing, Naomi was affectionately known as the “hat lady” to her church friends.

She is survived by her daughter: Ruthann S. Arras of Palmer Twp.; son-in-law Sam Conard of Hillsboro, NJ (wife Barb); grandchildren: Shannon Ratkay (husband Chuck) and Marissa Menafro (husband Matthew) and 3 great-grandchildren: Tyler, Levi, and Marshall. She was predeceased by her husband, Wendell; her daughter, Esther Conard; her sister, Esther Lash, and her grandson, Jesse Conard.

The family expresses many thanks to the women of the Naomi Companion Club, who visited her as she aged. Special thanks to Deacon Shirley for her portable tea parties and enthusiastic book reading, friend Candy for her weekly phone calls, and Deacon Susan for her beautiful flute music. Naomi also enjoyed the drive-by birthdays, which included the Big Easy Easton Band performing in front of her house! Pastor Stefanie’s visits were also a highlight for her.

Her last year was spent at Country Meadows of Forks, where she was the oldest resident in the history of the facility and was treated like a Queen, especially on her 107th birthday – thank you Amy! Special thanks to Nurse Emily and Aides Tammy and Lori for their loving care that surpassed all expectations. The Lehigh Valley Hospice also provided unlimited comfort and support – thank you Nelly, who patiently provided personal care for 4 years, and Nurse Amanda.

A Celebration of her Life will be held 3 PM, Saturday, April 1, 2023 at First Presbyterian Church, 333 Spring Garden St., Easton, with visitation from 2 to 3 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the church, 333 Spring Garden St., Easton, PA 18042 or to a charity of one’s choice. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.