Relda Elaine (Maxwell) Smith

Relda Elaine Smith, a beloved teacher and cherished resident of Wooster, OH, passed away peacefully at Brookdale Memory Care on Thursday, June 27th; 2024, at the age of 82. Born on December 30; 1941, to Ed and Emma Buchholz Maxwell. Relda dedicated her life to education, family, and community, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend who touched the lives of many with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

Relda grew up in Jeromesville, OH, and went on to earn her Bachelor of Education from Kent State University and a Masters in Guidance Counseling from University of Arizona demonstrating her passion for learning and dedication to helping students shape their future. In 1963, Relda married her high school sweetheart, Deane Karl Smith, with whom she shared over 40 wonderful years of marriage. Relda was a devoted mother who always put her family and students first, creating a warm and nurturing environment filled with love and dedication.

Over her 57 years as an educator, Relda touched the lives of countless students, inspiring them with her enthusiasm, kindness, unwavering support and “motivators”. She was known for her innovative teaching methods and her ability to make every student feel valued and capable of achieving their best. She was a full time educator for 44 years, as a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher serving the last 32 consecutive years at Wooster City Schools as the FCCLA advisor and class advisor. She retired in 2009, but continued to be a substitute teacher until 2022. She was not only known for her compassionate nature but willingness to help others.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Relda was deeply involved in her community. She was an active member of Mohicanville Community Church and also a member of the Ladies Guild. She was a member of the Jeromesville American Legion Auxillary and dedicated countless hours to volunteering and supporting various charitable causes. Her selflessness and desire to make a positive impact on those around her were evident in everything she did.

Relda's greatest joy came from her family, especially her grandchildren Jake, Gabe and Christian Burns of Jackson Township; Cooper and Elizabeth Smith of Wooster who brought immense pride and happiness into her life. She enjoyed spending time with them, cheering them on at their many sporting events, and creating cherished memories that will live on in their hearts.

Relda is survived by her daughter, Heather (Michael) Burns of Jackson Township, three sisters, Jeanne Schmid of Jeromesville, Joyceann (Keith) Driebelbis of Wooster and Mary Ellen Hickman of Norman, OK, and a brother, Bill Maxwell of Jeromesville.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Deane Smith, a daughter, Elizabeth Diane Smith and a son, Ed Smith.

Services will be 2:00 PM on Wednesday July 10, 2024 at Mohicanville Community Church with Pastor Scott Woodlee officiating. Burial will be in Jeromesville Cemetery. Friends may call from 12-2 pm on Wednesday at the church before the service.

A celebration of Relda's life will be held after burial at Mohicanville Community Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Mohicanville Community Church in Relda's memory.

Relda Elaine Smith's legacy of love, kindness and passion for teaching will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville assisted the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.fickesfuneralhome.com.

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