Carol May Smith

In Loving Memory of Carol May Smith. A Life of Faith, Love, and Grace. Carol Smith passed away peacefully, December 7, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. With a gentle spirit and a deep devotion to those she loved, Carol built a life defined by kindness, steadiness, and quiet strength. She shared many beautiful years with her beloved husband, Richard S. Smith, with whom she created a warm and welcoming home. Carol was raised in the Happy Valley and York neighborhoods of Bellingham. Upon graduating from Bellingham High School in 1950, Carol moved to Tacoma, soon working at McChord Air Force Base, where she affectionately met Staff Sergeant Richard S. Smith. They married each other August 2nd, 1952, and were lovingly devoted to each other over 66 years, together keeping lifelong friendships with “The McChordites”, couples from their Air Force team. They nourished a caring household and shared many life journeys together. Carol is preceded in death by husband Dick, parents James & May Clapp, and brother Ron. She is survived by her children: Vance (Rick) Smith and wife Betsy, Kristi Ellen Smith-Baklund and Mark, James (Jim) Mitchell Smith and Chari Henton. As well as her grandchildren: Tami Kruse and husband Dave, Jacob (Jay) Baklund and wife Kalli, Cameron Henton, Alethea Roach and Max, Danny Schmidt and Adrienne, Meredith Schmidt, her great-grandchildren: Ashley Slesk and Zach, Markus Hager, Kyrin and Maris Baklund, Aidan, Porter, Charlie, and Henry Roach, Sylvie and Sam Schmidt, and her great-great-grandchildren: Kyler and Cora Slesk. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Carolyn Clapp, and her nephews Russ and Loren. Carol was deeply devoted to God and faithful to her beliefs. She was the sweetest, most loving person to everyone who knew her, eliciting artful wit and living a life of true selflessness. A fine homemaker and avid gardener, she enjoyed mountain hikes, beachcombing and travel. Learning sewing early on, she became an accomplished quilter, cherishing the companionship of her “Dear Hearts” quilting club. She regularly attended Bellingham Theatre Guild plays, and read voraciously, captivated by both Biblical study and books on widely varying subjects. Carol was a courageous breast cancer survivor for over four decades. Her strength, endurance, and grace were an inspiration to all who knew her. The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who supported her, including the dedicated hospice team who cared for her throughout her journey. To honor Carol’s life and legacy, her family requests that memorial contributions be made to: Immanuel Bible Church Dementia Action Collaborative or Andy Hill Cancer Research Endowment Fund Her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her.

Carol May Smith

April 8, 1932 - December 7, 2025