In Loving Memory of Martha Claudia Smith

Martha Claudia Smith, born on August 8, 1925, in Norfolk, Virginia, peacefully transitioned on November 27, 2023, at the age of 98, surrounded by love at Harbor’s Edge. Martha, the beloved daughter of Mattie Hammond Smith and Richard March Smith, was the eldest among her siblings, including her late sister, Anne Smith Jenkins, and her surviving sister, Frances Smith Neal of Williamsburg. Norfolk was not just her home; it was the canvas upon which she painted a life of unwavering devotion and service.

Her spirit was adorned with an undying love for sports: from the grace of field hockey to the thrill of horseback riding, riflery, and golf, her heart danced with the victories of ODU women’s basketball. Martha’s academic journey was a testament to her dedication: Granby High School in 1943, Sweet Briar College in 1947 with a Bachelor of Arts, and later, in 1979, Virginia State University, where she earned her Master of Education degree.

Martha embarked on exhilarating escapades, traversing post-war Europe and crisscrossing the United States alongside her college companions before she tied the knot with Benjamin G. Smith, with whom she later parted ways. Their union blessed her with two sons, Benjamin G. Smith, Jr (now deceased) and Richard M. Smith II, who became a pillar of her life.

Her professional legacy was marked by dedication as a beloved librarian at Blair JH and Northside JH in Norfolk Public Schools. But it was in her unwavering commitment to community service that Martha found her true calling. Her passion ignited reforms in health care within Norfolk and throughout the state. Her influence extended to numerous health boards, including Norfolk CSB, the VAMI board, and her involvement with NAMI; leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched.

Martha's heart overflowed with love for her grandsons, Benjamin (deceased) and Richard, living in Springfield, Virginia. Her love knew no bounds, encompassing her immediate family and extending warmth to all whose lives she touched.

In her passing, Martha Claudia Smith reunites with cherished souls gone before her—her sister, Anne Smith Jenkins, former husband, Benjamin G Smith, her son, Benjamin G. Smith, Jr, and her grandson, Benjamin G. Smith, III.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted son, Richard M. Smith II, and daughter-in-law, Marie Martin Smith, her adored grandson, Richard M. Smith III, her sister, Frances Smith Neal (Voss), former sister-in-law, Fleecy Smith (Alec), Richard’s step-sisters: Linda Frazier (Keith) and Laurie Schmidt (Bob), nieces: Georgeanna Neal, Elizabeth McFadden (Neil), Betsy Parks (Rufus), Margert Hardy, Sarah Byrne Smith, Hampton Lea, Page Dudley (Ted), Kate Crespo (Bill), nephews: Randolph Neal (Diane), and Jimmy Lea.

A family service honoring Martha’s life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Norfolk, where her memory will be cherished and celebrated.

Martha Claudia Smith's legacy of love, dedication, and service will forever echo in the hearts of those she touched. Her gentle spirit and unwavering commitment will continue to inspire and guide us through the ages. Donations may be made to the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Foundation.

Simply Cremation is assisting her family. Please express condolences & share memories at SimplyCremationOnline.com.