Obituary of Loretta Omagene Smith

SmithLoretta Loretta Omagene (Queen) Smith Loretta Omagene (Queen) Smith, 74, of Akron, went home to her Lord on Easter Sunday April 12, 2009. She was born in Buckhannon, West Virginia and moved to Akron in 1955. Omagene had worked for South Akron Awning, Prinz Interiors, the Akron Masonic Temple, and was an active PTA member during her children’s school years. Omagene was a faithful member of Celebration Church (formerly Evangel Temple) for over 50 years. From the mid 60’s to 70’s she was part of the Evangel Builders, a group of ladies who raised money for special church projects. For over 11 years, Omagene arrived early to prepare coffee and baskets of doughnut holes for Sunday school. She participated in the Pioneers of Faith seniors group and enjoyed luncheons and short trips with her friends. Omagene belonged to the Akron Metro Parks Hiking Club for 36 years, hiking over 5000 miles. She was the club president for two years and also hiked with Portage Trail Walkers and Canton Hilltop Hikers. In addition to being a loving and dedicated wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, Omagene was a gracious and compassionate person who found great joy in people. For anyone in need, she was always there to love, help, and encourage. Preceded in death by her parents, Ovid and Ocie Queen and sister, Angeline Marple, she is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Ralph Junior Smith; her devoted children, Ronald (Donna-Marie), Robin (Bruce Smyth), Lonnie (Nancy), Letitia (Gale Wells), Thomas (Teresa), and David (Rae-Jean); also by sisters, Geraldine Stump and Ernestine Stone; 7 grandchildren; 3 great-granddaughters; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and faithful friends. Calling hours are Tuesday, April 14 from 5 – 8 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, and Wednesday, April 15 from 10 – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 688 Dan St., Akron where funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. with Pastor Jeff Wade and Pastor John Beers officiating. Graveside services and interment will be on Friday, April 17 at 11 a.m. at the Reger Chapel Church Cemetery in Buckhannon, West Virginia. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Celebration Church or Hospice of Summa. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home in Buckhannon is in charge of the arrangements. Graveside Service Friday, April 17, 2009 at 11 AM Reger Chapel Cem.-Brushy Fork