Maria Elizabeth Smith

Maria Elizabeth [Van Houten] Smith passed away on August 27, 2018, and is now at peace, after a long struggle with several chronic health issues. She faced death in the same manner she dealt with her illness, tragic loss, and with other difficulties placed in her path-- with a quiet dignity and grace, and with unwavering courage and resolve.

Maria was preceded in death by her mother and father, Kate [Baldwin] and Edwin Wells Van Houten; sister, Judy Daprano; daughter, Amy Kathryn Smith.

Maria is survived by her husband of almost 50 years, Cecil A.Smith; brother H. Wells Van Houten; nieces Judy Daprano, Christi Evans; nephews Bill Daprano, Jr., Michael Van Houten [Jennifer]; brother-in-law Bill Daprano, Sr. [Jeanne]; two great-nieces; four great nephews; closest of friends/cousin Penny Morgan.

Maria’s early childhood was spent in a small community near Little Five Points; she was raised in a large, multi-generation household surrounded by loving kinfolk; she was of the Methodist faith. These influences undoubtedly helped nurture her strong, lifelong sense of traditional Southern values and a rare, remarkable love of family. One of Maria’s most admirable and enduring attributes was a genuine concern for the wellbeing of her friends and loved ones, all the while downplaying the complications associated with her declining health.

.Maria was valedictorian of the first graduating class of Berkmar High School, Lilburn, Ga. She graduated from Mercer University with honors; she went on to a lengthy career with Lucent Technologies, retiring in the year 2000. She was one of Ga.Tech’s most loyal fans.

While either is deeply appreciated, in lieu of flowers please consider donating in Maria’s memory to either of the following organizations:

National Multiple Sclerosis Society
P.O. Box 16128
Atlanta, GA 30321-0128
https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/GAA

The Multiple Sclerosis Center of Atlanta
3200 Downwood Circle, Suite 550
Atlanta, GA 30327
http://www.mscatl.org/donate.aspx