Carole Ruth Smith

Salem-Carole Ruth Smith, a woman of immense kindness and unyielding love, passed peacefully at Hospice House on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at the age of 84. Born on March 14, 1939, in Salem, OH, Carole was the beloved daughter of the late Edward and Rose (Rodgers) Kalbfell.

Carole was a proud 1957 graduate of Salem High School. She was a woman of simple pleasures, finding joy in the everyday. She loved animals, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and pets held a special place in her heart. Carole was an avid thrift shopper, always on the hunt for unique finds and treasures. Her favorite pastime was watching the Golden Girls, often finding comfort in the humor and camaraderie of the show's characters.

Carole also held a deep love for music, especially the songs of Elvis Presley. The King's tunes often filled her home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. However, Carole's primary joy came from spending time with her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and every moment spent with them was cherished deeply.

Carole was married to the Earl O. Smith Jr. on February 27, 1965 until his passing on January 11, 2016.

Carole is survived by her six children, Sheri (Tom) Wherry Egli of Homeworth, Teri (Dilip) Poduval of St. John's, FL, Lynda Vesy of Austintown, Randy Smith of Youngstown, Michelle Crank of Salem, and Jennifer (Mark Warner) Smith. She was also a proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, who will carry her legacy forward.

Besides her parents and husband, preceding her in death were her siblings, Bill Kalbfell, Rosalie Gilbert, Dorothy Barr, Sally Miller, Patricia Kalbfell, and Donald Kalbfell; and son-in-law, Russell Wherry.

Visitation for friends and family will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Stark Memorial. A funeral service in honor of Carole's life will be held on Thursday, August 10, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Stark Memorial, with Pastor Ron Mauch officiating.

For those unable to attend, Stark Memorial offers a "Hugs from Home" program, which allows loved ones to show their support from afar.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Rd. Poland, OH 44514 or Columbiana County Humane Society, 1825 S. Lincoln Ave., Salem, OH 44460.

Carole Ruth Smith was a woman of unwavering kindness and love. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her and through the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be a beacon of love and kindness.
To view obituary or send condolences visit www.starkmemorial.com.
 

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