Maryanne Smith

Maryanne Chor Smith, Matriarch of two families, passed away at 101 years young on February 20, 2020. She was surrounded by family and friends in Chandler, Arizona. She was born December 17, 1918, to Barbara A. Bertalon Chor and Joseph J. Chor in Argo, Illinois. Her parents and brother, George, immigrated from Hungary. Maryanne was the youngest of her siblings, George, Joseph, Michael, Kathrine and John Chor. Eventually her family settled in Dunbridge, Ohio. On the farm they owned, they raised tomatoes for the Heinz factory in Bowling Green, Ohio. Music was important in her life. Maryanne was an Accordionist and performed with her brother George, in his Orchestra. She graduated from Bowling Green High School in 1936. She studied and became a hairstylist in Toledo, Ohio. During WWII, she went on a blind date and met the love of her life, Sgt. Clyde T. Smith, Army Air Corp. They were married August 10, 1946, at Saint Patrick’s, Toledo, Ohio. After several moves for Clyde’s career, they transferred to Wilmington, Illinois. They called this home while raising their sons, Gary and Jay. Clyde retired and they moved to Bath, N.Y., his home state, to be close to family. “Grammy’s” grandchildren, Taylor and Alex, were her heart. She loved interacting with them, especially spending time with them on the Florida beaches. Maryanne’s life was filled with family and more friends than she could count. Her interests included being the Director of Sunday School at Grace Lutheran Church in Wilmington, Illinois. She volunteered at Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital, Bath; Bath Tourism and her church. She enjoyed gardening, growing tomatoes, playing cards, needlework and golfing. She even scored her age, in the 80’s. She was an avid sports fan. Cheering on her sons and grandchildren made her proud. She cheered for Notre Dame, The Ohio State U, Bowling Green State, Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, Buffalo Bills and the US Olympic Team. Some of her favorite memories were in the kitchen cooking and baking her family’s Hungarian specialties. Christmas goodies were extra special. Sightseeing across the United States and traveling to foreign countries were thrilling adventures. Maryanne was a loving, caring, fun, adventurous and fiery lady. She enjoyed great wine, good tequila and an occasional cigar with Jay. We love her and we miss her big smile and laughter. Surviving family members; Sons: Gary (Patty Siravo), Jay (Kay Brooks), Granddaughter, Taylor Smith, Grandson, Alex (Hailey Alexander). Nieces, Kathy Smith, and Ann Smith, Heidi Smith, Sandy Smith Oakley and Donna Smith Harrington. Nephews, Darrell Smith, Larry Smith, David Chor and Buddy Chor and Great nieces and nephews. Funeral services are at The Praise and Worship Center, 2551 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ 85225 on February 5, 2020 at 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to these charities; The American Legion, www. support.legion.org/donate : Hospice of the Valley, www. HOV.org and Phoenix Animal Care Coalition, www. PACC911.org. Thank you