Doris Barrett Smith

Doris Barrett Smith, who passed away last week, was born May 21, 1907 in Marshall, the daughter of Clyde C. and Nellie Lucas Barrett. She is survived by two daughters, Aileen Githens of Richmond, Ind., and Jeanette Smith Williamson of Keokuk, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, W.A. "Bert" Smith; a son, Ralph B. "Pat" (Madonna) Smith; a daughter, Beverly (Clifford) Fenner; and a sister, Elizabeth 'Betty' Saum. Also surviving are grandchildren, Dinah (Jim) Phillips, Vicki (Jeff) Rhude, David Barrett (Janice) Smith, Barry Smith, Marty Smith Clark, Penny Githerns Buffy, Sharon Githens Enright, Cathy Githens, Steve Githens, Brandt Williamson, Brian Williamson, Jamey Williamson Phillips, Jana Helmuth, Jewel Schieuer, 26 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren Doris was affectionately known by her family and throughout the county as "Mommy Doris." She was the oldest member of the Marshall United Methodist Church, and was the pianist for 75 years, and held the office of President of the United Methodist Women's group for over 20 years, as well as the Sunday School treasurer. She also served as a church trustee and served on the administrative board. Doris was active in the Marshall School and helped organize the Parent Teachers Organization and served as the first president. She was a census taker in 1940 and worked for many years for the Census Department. She also served as a member of the Highland County Children and Adult Board. She was a very active Farm Bureau member, serving on the Advisory Council, served on its Board of Directors for Highland County for over 25 years and was elected as a Lady Trustee of the State of Ohio Farm Bureau Board of Directors in 1956 and served in this capacity until 1986, a total of 30 years. She represented the southwest portion of Ohio, which included 20 counties. She also was an active member of Associated Country Women of the World and attended conferences every three years in other countries of the world regarding agriculture. She was elected into the Highland County Women's Hall of Fame in 1997 for her many accomplishments and contributions to Highland County agriculture and her community involvement. Funeral services were held on Monday, Aug. 31, 2009 at the Marshall United Methodist Church with the Rev. Janie Shoemaker officiating. Burial followed in the Marshall Cemetery. Visitation was Aug. 30 at the Thompson Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Marshall United Methodist Church in care of Gloria Flannery, 11398 S.R. 506, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. To sign the online registry, go to: www.thompsonfuneralhomes.com.[[In-content Ad]]