Vilma Monserrate Smith, 72, passed away at her home surrounded by loving family on June 20, 2014.
Born on March 26, 1942 in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, she was preceded in death by her mother Clara Ruiz and father Hermand Monserrate. She is survived by her husband, Robert D. Smith; her three children, Roger (Nicki) Smith of Mentor, Victor (Angie) Smith of Wooster, and Elena (Neil) McHale of Stow; and her seven grandchildren, Ryan, Evan, Ethan, Connor, Gavin, Rachel, and Laura. She has three sisters, Mariclara Porrata, Estela de Mari, and Olga Mendez living in Puerto Rico along with many nieces and nephews. Her sister-in-law, Marilyn (Carmin) Grasso lives in Florida.
Vilma earned a B.S. degree in early childhood education from the University of Puerto Rico and a Master of Education degree from Pennsylvania State University. She taught nursery school in State College, Pennsylvania and at the Weaver School in Ohio. She assisted teaching Spanish at St. Patrick School in Kent and Holy Family School in Stow. Vilma, an avid tennis player, was once ranked number one in NE Ohio for her age level, and won several local tournaments. Vilma was also an excellent ballroom dancer, making many friends wherever she played or danced. She guided social and charity groups in her Eastwicke Farms development. She was a skilled cook and seamstress, making dresses for family wedding parties and dances. She planned camping trips for her family and traveled annually to her beloved Puerto Rico to be with family and friends.
Vilma will be remembered for her passionate spirit, her love of life, her rich sense of humor, her positive attitude, and her deep faith in God. Her beauty and grace will live on forever in our hearts.
Calling hours will be held 2-4 and 6-8 PM Tuesday, June 24th at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St., Kent, Ohio 44240. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 AM Wednesday, June 25th at Holy Family Church with Reverend Paul J. Rosing officiating. Burial will be held at Standing Rock Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to St. Patrick School Endowment Fund in Kent or Holy Family School Endowment Fund in Stow.