EMILY JANE SMITH
December 25, 1917 ~ May 10, 2014
Emily Jane (Binns) Smith died on May 10, 2014. She was born in Columbus, OH to Henry Gibson and Emma Haskett Binns. Emily graduated from North High School and the Ohio State University, and received her Master's degree in Guidance and Counseling from Miami University of Ohio.
Education was her first love, and she taught Home Economics, and then Physical Education and English at Olentangy High School, English at Eaton High School, and was a guidance counselor at Trotwood High School, all in Ohio.
On retirement, Emily and her husband, Vann, settled in Ashland, OR, and she discovered her second calling: hosting Elderhostel sessions at Southern Oregon Community College. Here, she nurtured her love of Shakespeare, nature, and meeting interesting people.
Emily moved to Vancouver, WA in 1991 and enjoyed swimming at Landover Athletic Club, gardening, the UU Church, and caring for her granddaughter. She lived here until her death at age 96.
Emily is survived by her sons, Vann Michael Smith and wife Lynne of Atwater, CA and Edward Gibson Dolber-Smith and wife Sandra of Davis, CA; as well as her daughter, Emily Christine Smith and her husband Halden Ross Montgomery of Vancouver; and granddaughter, Emma Ailene Montgomery of New York City, NY.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Vann Byard Smith; and her four siblings.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Vancouver on Sun., May 25th at 2:30 p.m.
In lieu of formal flower arrangements, the family encourages donations to Opera Quest Northwest, supporting Emily's love of quality music, laughter, and children.
Please sign her guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Emily was a most gracious wonderful lady. I was another Landover swimming group member and that is where I meet Emily. I loved her and will miss her deeply. My heart goes out to her family.
Ludeen Floyd
May 16, 2014
Emily was a wonderful lady. I always enjoyed her company. She just sparkled when she spoke of her family, especially her granddaughter, Emma. She was so very proud of all their accomplishments.
I was part of her Landover group, and we would often times get together for brunch, or breakfast. She was an avid listener. She would ask pointed questions, and you would leave her presence, feeling you were her closest friend. Emily had a great sense of humor, and her laugh was contagious.
I miss Emily, and I will keep her family in my thoughts and prayers.
Joan Brodin
May 15, 2014
On behalf of Opera Quest Northwest, I'm writing to thank the Smith family with all my heart for encouraging donations to our nonprofit organization. We are honored to be the beneficiaries of Emily's "love of quality music, laughter, and children."
Kate Hobbie
May 14, 2014
I have a lovely memory of lunch at Emily's house. She was everything I heard she was - warm, vibrant, fun. I remember thinking I wish we lived closer so I could make memories like Josh and his brothers. Her lovely spirit will be with you for a long time. My heart goes out to all of you.
Colinda Stailey
May 14, 2014
We will always remember Emily as the sweet and loving neighbor that she was.
Tom & Marianne Smith
May 14, 2014
Aunt Emily will always be a sweet memory of direct wit and eye-sparkling charm. Growing up I revered her as a Home Economics educator and a lover of Literature whose passion I shared.
Smith-Dixey love and peace to all at this time when our hearts are united.
Jan Dixey
May 14, 2014
Surrounding the Smith kids and their families with loving thoughts. Recalling many amazing memories and stories around Emily, the farm, Grandma Smith's house, holiday gatherings, Eaton and more.
Jay Stailey and family
May 14, 2014
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