Elynor M. (Stilwell) Smith

Elynor M. Smith, age 77, a long-time resident of North Branch passed away on August 16, 2021 at the Devonshire Retirement Village.  Elynor (Ellie) was born on January 20, 1944 in Detroit to Charlotte May and Francis Stilwell.  She grew up in Detroit and attended Wayne State University where she earned her teaching degree.  In 1966, she married Thomas (Tom) Smith and, together, they raised son Brian and daughter Colleen.

Ellie taught in Detroit for several years and then, after moving to Lapeer County in 1973, she taught 32 years in the Lapeer Community Schools.  Ellie loved to teach (her mother taught in Detroit for more than 50 years) and was highly regarded by her students, parents, and peers.  When she was not teaching, she loved to dote on her dogs, especially Havoc, Chaos, and Rowdy.  She also loved to sail on Lake Huron on the family sailboat. 

Ellie was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Elayne and Kathryn, and son Brian.  She is survived by her husband Tom, daughter Colleen, and German Shepherd Rowdy.  In keeping with her wishes, there will be no visitation or formal service and the family will hold a private burial at Westlawn Cemetery with Pastor Joe Schierlinger officiating.

The family wishes to extend a very special thank you to the administration and staff at Devonshire Retirement Village for the superb care that Ellie received while a resident there.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to The Salvation Army, Devonshire Retirement Village, or the New Life in Christ LCMS Church in Deerfield Township.

You may share an online condolence to the family at www.blackburnchapel.com

Arrangements by Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home

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