Ruth O’Brien Smith

March 28, 1929 - October 8, 2010
Ruth O’Brien Smith

Gifts & Memorial Donations



Ruth OíBrien Smith of Hendersonville died Friday morning, October 8, 2010 at her home.

She was born March 28, 1929 in Mason City, Iowa to the late Dr. Steve OíBrien and Mrs. Edith Schaeffer OíBrien. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Dr. Steve OíBrien, and her sister, Dr. Marie Alcorn.

Ruth OíBrien Smith was a woman of many talents. She and her husband lived with their family for eighteen years abroad, in France, Peru, Mexico, Australia and England. Jack and Ruth returned to the United States to settle in Lake Forest, Illinois for the next twenty-seven years. In Lake Forest she was an avid, and winning, golfer and also a writer who participated in book groups and the Coterie. In 2005, she and Jack moved to Hendersonville to retire. Ruth continued to play golf and was involved with the Literacy Council.

She is survived by her beloved husband, John (Jack) Smith and her six children, Susan Schnuer, Kevin Smith, Brian Smith, Steve Smith, Robert Smith and Elizabeth Schwarze, and also her twenty-one grandchildren, her in-laws, and her sister, Ann Brosius.

Ruth OíBrien Smith lived her life with grace, integrity and love. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10 AM Friday, October 15 at the Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church with the Reverend John Salvas officiating.The family will receive guests in the St. Francis Hall of the church immediately following the service.

Memorials in celebration of Ruth Smithís life may be made to St. Gerard House, 208 7th Ave., Hendersonville, NC 28791, or to Four Seasons Compassion for Life, 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.


Service

Friday, October 15, 2010
12:00 AM

Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, Our Lady of the Angels Chapel - Directions
208 7th Ave. West
Hendersonville, NC 28791

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  • October 09, 2010
    Beth Cavanaugh Jansen says:
    My condolences to the Smith family. Ruth was a great person. She was so vibrant, healthy, and full of life! Her life really revolved around her family. My mother, Ellen Cavanaugh, was so very fond of her. Now these two cousins chat in heaven!!

  • October 09, 2010
    Molly O'Brien says:
    Aunt Ruth was a loving, kind and beautiful person. Always good for a story and many laughs, but had an evil stare that would stop you dead in your tracks. She'll be sorely missed by all left here, but definitely welcomed by all who have passed before her. I send much sympathy and love to Uncle Jack ("Twinkletoes") and all my dearest cousins.

  • October 10, 2010
    Pat & Claire Chase says:
    Brian, Your mom was a remarkable woman. I am so glad you have many wonderful memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • October 11, 2010
    Tami Tate says:
    I had the honor of cleaning Ruth's home. I am thankful to have known her and her family in the short time that I did. She was a woman of faith and love. My prayer are with the family at this time. My the peace that passes all understanding come in this time.

  • October 12, 2010
    Herman Fleishman says:
    Brian, we are very sadden by your loss. un fuerte abrazo Henry & Robert