Obituary of Louise S. Smith

Louise “Bebe” Streeter Smith was born on January 7, 1929, to Henry William and Mary Louise Streeter, Sr. and passed away peacefully at Appleridge Senior Living on Wednesday, May 16, 2018, at the age of 89. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Arthur “Doc” C.

Smith, Jr.; brother Henry W. (Anne) Streeter, Jr. of Elmira. Bebe is survived by her children Arthur C. (Jennifer) Smith III of Kaktovik, AK; Tyler K. Smith of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Polly (DeLos) Blackwell of Elmira; and Matthew (Kelly) S. Smith of Elmira; grandchildren Arthur C. (Heather) Smith, IV of Elmira; Nichole (Jason) Newsted of Jupiter Island, FL; Jessie Smith of Elmira; Jennifer (Chris) Naused of Seneca Falls; Jacob and Aaron Smith of Ft. Lauderdale; Robert (Christine) Reynolds of Big Flats; Keri (Matthew) Manning of Elmira; Taylor Smith of Big Flats; as well as many great grandchildren.

Bebe graduated from Elmira Free Academy and attended Sweet Briar College in Virginia, where she performed as a soprano soloist for the college choir and was recognized in musical circles as “a singer of great promise.” After graduation, she continued studying and performing in the New York City area, and became a member of Robert Shaw’s Collegiate Chorale, which was considered the most widely respected professional choral organization in the US.

Returning home to Elmira, Bebe married Arthur C. Smith, Jr. and focused on starting a family. Throughout her working career, she specialized as an interior designer, working for various local design establishments, and later worked as the administrator of her husband’s private ophthalmology practice. While working, she also volunteered countless hours with the American Red Cross.

Bebe’s interests included reading, sewing, water color painting, puzzles and playing bridge. She enjoyed her friends, was very outgoing with a great sense of humor, and she loved her many dogs.

There will be no public calling hours. A graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family, and a remembrance reception for family and friends will be held at Tanglewood Nature Center, 443 Coleman Avenue, Elmira, on Friday, June 1, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Bethany Home Care for their dedicated, friendly and caring services. Memorials celebrating Bebe’s life can be made to CareFirst, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post NY 14870, or an organization of your choice.