Ruth Jackson Smith of Hagerstown, Md., passed away peacefully Thursday surrounded by family after suffering a severe stroke.

She and her husband, Dale Smith, were longtime residents and active community members of Harmony, where Dale was superintendent of the Southwest Butler County School District and Ruth finished her teaching career as an elementary educator and reading specialist loved by all.

Ruth was the daughter of Walter Paul and Blanche Thomas Jackson of Union, N.J.

Ruth's life is marked by her love for family, children and dogs; her thoughtfulness and desire to help others, especially the less fortunate, and her interest in travel, people and cultures. She opened her home and heart to many. All felt instantly welcome and will remember her graciousness, her deep interest in each one and her laughter.

Ruth's many activities and memberships included the English Lutheran Church in Zelienople, the American Association of University Women, Eastern Star, the Pennsylvania Teacher's Association, Zelienople Historical Society and the Historic Harmony Association.

Ruth moved to Hagerstown in December 2002 from Western Pennsylvania after her husband's death to be close to her daughter, Willa Kay Bowers, and family.

She was active in the Trinity Lutheran Church, the Newcomers Association, the Christian Women's group, the Word Among Us, and in supporting local charities.

She continued to travel, read, maintain a lovely home, visit friends and family, and support the activities of her granddaughter, Michelle Clevenger, and her two great-granddaughters, McKenna and Reanne.

Ruth leaves a legacy of compassion, generosity and service above self.

Smith — A memorial service for Ruth Jackson Smith, who passed away Thursday, Oct. 2, 2014, will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Trinity Lutheran Church, Hagerstown, Md.Given Ruth's deep love for children, in lieu of flowers, she would rather donations be made to the Trinity Lutheran Church, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Child Fund International, or Rotary International.