Thelma R. N. Smithies a resident of Norwalk since 1947, died peacefully in Hospice at Norwalk Hospital on August 28, 2013 with her surviving children at her side. Thelma was born on February 22, 1924 in NYC and was a daughter to the late Hugh J. and Dorothy Irene Glover Nisbet. Raised in England, she attended the Convent of St. Mary in Richmond. Shortly after WW II broke out she traveled to New York via the SS Swarthmore victory where she met her future husband, then, third officer, Allan Cunninghame Smithies. She attended Gardner School in New York and after graduated, The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NY for two years. Thelma was predeceased by her husband Allan, July 18, 1980, shortly after his retirement from The United States lines after 50 years of service, 40 years as Captain of Freighters and the SS America and her youngest daughter Victoria Elizabeth Smithies Ake August 27, 2008. Survivors include her eldest daughter Leslie M.S. Sweet of Wilton; and her son David A. Smithies and his wife Deirdre of Yorktown Heights, NY; and four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Thelma was an avid tennis player and horse back rider in her younger days, always loved the outdoors, birds, animals and especially dogs. In her later years, she became an avid vegetable and flower gardener, sharing her knowledge and experience with those who wanted to learn. Other pleasures were traveling to England to see her mother, reading and time with friends. She was a member of the St. Paul's Church on the green in Norwalk for 45 years where she was an active member of the Choir Guild, Garden Committee and for a few years a member of the vestry, Pledge Committee and search Committee. She was also a member of The Women's Board in Norwalk Hospital and dedicated Treasure House volunteer for 20 or more years. A memorial service will be held on September 21, 2013 at 2:00 pm directly at St. Paul's Church on the Green, 60 East Ave. Norwalk. Interment will follow in St. Paul's Memorial Garden. Norwalk's Hoyt-Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Please visit www.norwalkfh.com for more information and to send a condolence to the Smithies family. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Memorial Garden or St. Music Program or an animal charity of one's choice.
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