Loretta L. Smith

Loretta Lucille (Schneider) Smith, 80, of Reading, passed away peacefully Monday morning, January 22, 2018, in Mifflin Center, Shillington. Born June 22, 1937 in Brooklyn, NY, she was a daughter of the late Richard G. and Mabel (Van Buskirk) Schneider. She was the widow of Donald F. Smith, who passed in 1987.

A graduate of Pocono High School, Loretta received her BS in Business Administration from the former Allentown College of St. Francis DeSales, an accomplishment she achieved while working full-time. She worked for many years as an Administrative Assistant for the government, and the Allentown State Hospital, retiring in 1992.

Loretta was very active in the Democratic Party, was passionate about the Civil Rights and Women's Rights Movements, and was a member of the National Organization of Women.

Loretta loved being a mom and grandmother, introducing all of her children to art, books and music. She particularly enjoyed camping with her family, but loved nothing more than spoiling her grandchildren. The Pocono Mountains held a special place in her heart and she was especially fond of dogs, jewelry, chocolate-covered strawberries and the New York Yankees.

Loretta is survived by her children: Phyllis Smith of Clarksville, TN, Cynthia Dexheimer of Doylestown, PA, Donald F. Smith, Jr. of New Jersey,

Kathleen Meyers of Naples, FL and Richard H. Smith of Reading. Also surviving are three grandchildren: Jessica Loretta Dortone, Steven Bilger and William Meyers, plus her great grandson Leo Bilger.

Two brothers also survive her: Richard and Donald Schneider, both of the Poconos. She was predeceased by a sister, Susie Schneider.

A Memorial Service for Loretta will be held Friday, January 26, 2018 at 11:00am in St. Mark's Community Lutheran Church, 242 Miller Road, Appenzell, PA, with a viewing one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Appenzell Cemetery.

Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., 739 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.