On a beautiful September day, a little bit of goodness left this earth for the promise of loved ones waiting beyond. Born in Beaver Falls, Pa., Mickey was the oldest child of Jesse Lavern and Mary Ann Rees. She enjoyed an idyllic childhood until the passing of her father brought on challenges. At age 13 she was sent to live with relatives in Smithfield, Utah and there her character was shaped by the farm, school, hard economic times and the concerns of WWII. She often spoke of classmates who never returned from war. At age 17, with $5 in her pocket, she left home to find work and a teletype job at Hill Field. This early experience developed into lifelong work in communications with top secret clearances for the military, the federal government and the FAA.
Mickey met her "Bill," William Davis Smith, and they were married and sealed in the LDS Temple on Sept 2, 1948. Together they lived and worked in Salt Lake City while raising their family. Throughout life she was a great support to her husband in his educational pursuits and in his efforts at building a business. She was preceded in death by the passing of her husband in 1994.
Mickey is survived by her 4 children; W. Dave (Carol), Carolynne (Jeff Record), Michael (Heidi) and Marilynne. She has 10 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
An example of selflessness, hope and kindness to all, Mickey's life example entreats each of us to persist in efforts to make a positive difference in the world. She cared deeply for animals ‚ especially the abused and endangered, and she supported numerous causes throughout her life. Some of Mickey's favorite things in life were her family, friends and neighbors, poetry, music, pen pals, writing, caring for others, and the dogs and cats that were part of the fabric of her life. No one was long a stranger to Mickey and she had dear friendships with people from France, China, Germany, India, Japan and Latin America. She especially cherished dear friends in the neighborhood.
Our family would like to express heartfelt appreciation to neighbors, friends and church members for their kindness over the many years. It was the reason she never wanted to leave her home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mickey's memory to a humanitarian, educational or animal support charity of your choice. That would make her smile.
A viewing will be held Friday, Sept 5, 2014 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Larkin Mortuary, 260 East South Temple, with funeral services on Saturday, Sept 6 at 10:00 a.m. at the Yale Ward, 1430 East Gilmer Drive, SLC, Utah, where friends and family may visit one hour prior to the service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.larkincares.com.
