Edward O. Smith

Edward O. Smith, 82, of Sanford, died on Monday, February 22, 2010 at the Newton Center in Sanford after a courageous battle with cancer and Parkinson's Disease.He was born on April 7, 1927 in Richmond, VA, the son of the late Vernon and Grace (Platt) Smith. He attended school in Park Ridge, NJ.In Park Ridge he met and fell in love with the woman who would become his wife of 57 years, Marie Mullin. Together they enjoyed camping, long car rides, motorcycle riding and watching their family grow.Eddie served in the United States Army during World War II. He was stationed in Starke, Florida at Camp Blanding, where he first fell in love with the state of Florida.Eddie was an accomplished musician, playing the organ, piano and the accordion. He played in several bands throughout his lifetime. Eddie's passion for music was an important part of his life.Eddie was the plant manager for Tennford Weaving Company in Sanford, retiring after 39 years. While plant manager he received his pilots license so he could fly back and forth to Tennessee for work. After retiring from Tennford Weaving, he would go to the airport just to watch the planes take off. His passion for flying never waned. After his retirement Eddie and Marie moved down to Sebastian, FL to live during the long winter months.Edward was predeceased by his parents, brothers Robert Smith and Arthur Smith, sisters Virginia Bailey and Grace Smith, and sister-in-law Francis Mullin Smith.He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marie R. Smith, and by his daughters Judith F. Smith, Laurie Ackroyd and her husband Greg all of Sanford, and Tracy Papa and her husband Charlie of Biddeford. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Mallory Ackroyd, Andrea Ackroyd and Victoria Ackroyd of Sanford, Nicholas Papa and Vincent Papa of Biddeford. Other survivors include his brother, Stanley Smith, Sr. and his wife, Arlene of Acton, and his sister-in-law Katherine Smith of Sebastian, FL and many wonderful nieces and nephews.Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale on Friday, March 5 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A funeral service will be conducted at the funeral home on Saturday, March 6 at 11:00 AM.Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider: The Newton Center Activities Fund, 35 June St., Sanford, ME 04073.Condolences may be expressed at the Condolence tab at left.