Dorothy V. Smith

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Smith, Dorothy V. beloved wife, mother, and teacher, age 98, died peacefully on April 4 at Langton Place, Rose-ville, where she had lived during her final years. Preceded in death by Lyle, her husband for 65 years. Survived by her sons Darryl and Duane. Dorothy was born in Duluth, MN in 1918, the eldest child of Ralph and Florence Snider. She attended Duluth State College, where she earned her teaching certificate in elementary education. Her first teaching position was in rural Otter Tail Co., where she met Lyle Smith. Dorothy and Lyle were married on March 24, 1943. Following Lyle's return from military service, they moved to the Twin Cities. Dorothy continued her teaching career: she taught in Bloomington public schools 1947-1952, at St. Richard's Catholic School in Richfield 1953-1957, and again in Bloomington public schools from 1957 until her retirement in 1984. She taught kindergarten and first grade, and she was one of Bloomington's "Project Read" teachers who used a phonics-based method to help students overcome reading difficulties. Dorothy co-authored a reading textbook, and in 1975 she was a finalist in the search for the Minnesota Teacher of the Year. During her retirement she enjoyed dancing and travel. Many thanks to the staff of Langton Place for their care during Dorothy's residence there. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Church of St. Patrick in Edina or to the Presbyterian Homes Foundation. Visitation will be held 4-7 PM Monday, April 10 at Washburn-McReavy, Edina Chapel, W. 50th St. & Hwy. 100, 952-920-3996. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 AM Tuesday, April 11 with visitation one hour prior at the Church of St. Patrick, 6820 St. Patrick's Lane, Edina and with interment to follow at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Published on April 6, 2017