OBITUARY OF JANET NICHOLSON SMITH (1955-2013)
Janet Nicholson Smith died peacefully Monday evening at her home surrounded by loved ones after suffering from and fighting glioblastoma multiformé (GBM), a very aggressive form of brain cancer, for over 21 months. Since 2005, she was an elementary school teacher at Waynewood Elementary in Fairfax County, Virginia. She continued her dedication to teaching, both in Kindergarten and as a Reading Specialist, until the effects of her terminal illness and the effects of the medicines used to fight it rendered her quite suddenly unable to come to work only last month. She had previously taught at nearby Hybla Valley Elementary from 2000.
The former Janet Arlene Nicholson was the daughter of the late Burnard Eugene Nicholson, an Indiana native and Emmy award-winning electrical engineer for RCA for 40 years, and Dorothy May Waldron Nicholson, a native of Camden, New Jersey, currently residing in southern Chester County, Pennsylvania. She spent her childhood and early adulthood in Haddonfield, New Jersey, an historic colonial town outside of Philadelphia, where she attended Haddonfield Memorial High School and was a cheerleader. She received her B.A. in Education (cum laude) from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in New Jersey, majoring in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Elementary Education. She also had post-graduate credits from Rutgers University and a lifetime of continuing education spanning the fields of teaching, reading, financial securities, and computers.
She started her teaching career in the neighboring town of Haddon Heights, New Jersey, where she taught for four years including First Grade, Kindergarten, Psycho-Motor Skills, and Title I/Compensatory Education (remedial math and reading).
In 1981, she married Kevin Hopkins Smith of Kimberton, Chester County, Pennsylvania, then an attorney for the American Gas Association in Arlington, Virginia, whom she had met while he was practicing with a Philadelphia law firm. Upon relocating to Northern Virginia, teaching positions proved scarce, so she embarked upon a second career in the mutual fund industry, serving in several positions with the Investment Company Institute in Washington, D.C., the national trade association for the mutual fund industry, receiving two promotions in less than two years. She continued in this industry when she and her husband relocated in 1983 so he could establish a private law practice in his hometown of Phoenixville, Chester County, Pennsylvania. She first served as a Registered Mutual Fund Representative with the Vanguard Group of Mutual Funds in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, earning a Series 6 Registration from the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD), and then accepted a position as a corporate officer in a small Valley Forge-based money market fund. During these years, she and her husband lived on a 65-acre farm that is now part of Valley Forge National Park. After the National Park Service acquired the farm, they moved inside the borough of Phoenixville into a small Victorian mansion four blocks from her husband's law office and she added income tax preparation work for a local accountant to her varied resumé while continuing with the Valley Forge money market fund.
In 1987, her third major career was launched with the birth of their son, Dustin Lofland Smith, and she became a full-time "stay-at-home" mother for Dustin and their daughter, Laura Nicholson Smith, who arrived in 1989. Her six years of full-time devotion to motherhood continues to earn praise even today from those who meet her children. After moving to a new house in the neighboring village of Kimberton, she incorporated the children of others into her daytime routine for a couple of years as the proprietor of her own home-based child care business, also conceiving, organizing, and operating a pre-school play group for children whose parents were involved in various programs at a local community center.
As her children were entering pre-school, she began substitute teaching at Zion Lutheran Pre-School near their home and quickly thereafter was hired as its Director, managing a staff of 18 and a student population of 175, aged 2 to 5, where she served for four years, during which the lines of parents attempting to enroll their children on a first-come, first-served basis stretched long into the parking lot. She later served for a year on the editorial staff and as Publications Coordinator for an educational consulting firm in Paoli, Pennsylvania, which published specialized curriculum materials particularly in the then-burgeoning field of integrating workplace ethics education into school curricula.
During most of their Pennsylvania years, she was also active in politics, serving on the Chester County Republican Committee as a precinct committeewoman in both the Borough of Phoenixville and East Pikeland Township and was re-elected many times.
When they moved their family to Alexandria, Virginia, at the close of the century, she was hired by Fairfax County Public Schools within a week. Based on the flood of comments already online from parents regarding their own and their children's memories of Janet's teaching and also her caring and kind attitude, it is quite obvious that she has had a major impact on the lives of the hundreds of students she has taught. In one case, from her early New Jersey teaching years, that impact was so great on one little girl that she, decades later, invited Janet and her husband to her wedding.
She is survived by her husband of over 32 years, by her two children, by her 92-year-old mother, by her older brother, Kenneth Eugene Nicholson, of Wilmington, Delaware, by her nephew Daniel Taylor Nicholson, of West Chester, Pennsylvania, by two grand-nephews (plus one more well on the way), and by countless loving in-laws and devoted friends. Son Dustin is currently working on his Ph.D. in German at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, following his Master's there and his B.A. from The College of William & Mary. He is a former Fulbright Scholar and, between high school and college, was also awarded a Congress-Bundestag Scholarship, in each case living in Germany for a full year. Daughter Laura has her B.S. (cum laude) in Elementary Education from James Madison University and her Master of Arts in Teaching from there as well. She is following in her mother's footsteps and currently teaches Kindergarten in the Fairfax County Public Schools at Woodley Hills Elementary in Mount Vernon.
Janet was a member of Alexandria Presbyterian Church (PCA) in the Del Ray section of the City of Alexandria, where her funeral service will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday with a luncheon to follow from 2:00-3:00pm. She was active in several churches throughout her life in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Demaine Funeral Home, 520 South Washington Street (GW Parkway w/i Old Town), Alexandria, Virginia, where a viewing will be held this Friday from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, DUMC Box 3624, Durham, NC 27710 in her memory. Instructions and forms can be found on the website: http://www.cancer.duke.edu/btc/modules/waystohelp10/index.php?id=2. This is where her care was managed and the care of loved ones of two family friends continues to be managed.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
January 7, 2014
Kevin,
Stricken on New Year's Eve, 2011, Janet, with your loving support, received the best medical attention in the country to overcome her GBM. Our thoughts are with you, Dustin and Laura as you grieve her loss.
Steve Coval
Karen Lawley
October 30, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss of Janet. I knew her my entire life and enjoyed being friends in N.J. through church, school, and parents' friendships. We spend many afternoons and sleep-overs enjoying each other's company. Janet was a delightful friend, and I know she will be greatly missed. Your family was blessed to have been able to call her wife and mother. My best to all of you, including Ken and Mrs. Nicholson. Much love, Ann Grim Pippitt
October 17, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will cherish many fond memories of swimming, play dates, and lots of great times when our children were younger. Linda Norris, Phoenixville, Pa.
October 13, 2013
Mike & Denise McMullen
October 13, 2013
Deidra Dunbar
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. May you find strength and comfort in your faith. God Bless.
October 12, 2013
Cindy Grider
So sorry for a loss of one so great. My prayers, blessings, condolences and deepest sympathy are with her family. May she forever rest in eternal peace and happiness - now free of pain. She obviously will not be forgotten and remembered for all her great achievements as well as her generous nurturing to others.
October 12, 2013
Janice Nichols
Janet was a true blessing in my life as we shared car rides to class. My prayers go out to your family. Janice Nichols
October 12, 2013
David and Stacey Stephens
Janet's life was a blessing to so many; she will be greatly missed. We're keeping her family in our prayers.
October 11, 2013
Eileen Deaver
Janet was a delightful person and coworker. I will always remember her bright smile. Peace be with you Janet.
October 11, 2013
Sharon Vennelwieber
My Prayers go out to all of Janet's family, I will always remember the great times we had growing up in Haddonfield, Janet was always fun to be around & had such a big heart & lots of love & friendship for all. RIP my friend of olde. <3
October 11, 2013
Caryn (Larro) Lynch
I was a student of both Miss Nicholson and Mrs. Smith:-). She taught us two years in a row for kindergarten and first grade (she told us it was because she liked us so much). She was the most wonderful, warm, and nurturing teacher to have for those formative years. My youngest daughter is in kindergarden now and it bring back lots of wonderful memories I had at the same age thanks to this amazing woman. Prayers to your entire family and all those who love her.
October 11, 2013
Sheri Gibson
Mrs. Smith, you will forever shine in the light of God's grace. You were an amazing teacher who deeply cared and loved the children you taught and especially all the children who had the privilege of knowing you. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. We are all better for having known you. RIP, Mrs. Smith, teach the angels well.
The Gibson Family
October 11, 2013
Chuck & Beverly Capone
Precious in the sight of The Lord is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15
Let the blossom bloom. Let the tears of your grief water the seeds of hope that one day you will be with Janet again, in the loving arms of our savior.
October 10, 2013
Kathy Lundgren
To Janet's family: I want to extend my deepest sympathy for the loss of your wife, mother and daughter. She fought long and hard during her illness and is a wonderful example of strength and hope. May you find comfort in memories of her as many of us who knew her will do the same....in Christian sympathy, Kathy (Lundgren) Lowman (Jupiter, FL)
October 10, 2013
Brian Lanza
Janet and went to school together. She was alway nice. I admire her fight she went threw. Never give up, keep on fighting. She would never have lasted as long as she did . She was a teacher in more than one way. I bet she taught others what could be done by never giving up. May she rest in peace I want to share a poen which says it all
God saw you were getting tired,
and a cure was not to be
so he put his arms around you
and whrispered "Come to me"
With tearful eyes we watched you,
and saw you pass away.
Although we loved you dearly,
We could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us,
He only takes the best
October 10, 2013
Julie Park
Janet was my kindergarten and first grade teacher. She was an amazing woman who showed her true spirit of strength and faith during her last years. I will never forget how she inspired me to be the best I can in all I do. She will always be a source of inspiration for me. All who were blessed to know her will never forget her kind heart and gentle spirit. I miss you Janet. Thank you for helping me become the person I am today!
October 10, 2013
Gary & Marty Meadows
Janet was a remarkable woman and we were happy to know her. Her courage and tenacity was truly inspirational. Her beautiful spirit is now free. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this difficult time.
October 10, 2013
Jenny Moore
Kevin, Dustin, and Laura: Janet was a great women. She just didn't touch the lives of all those students but she changed the lives of all co-workers she worked with. I am very honored and proud to say I am one of those special co-workers that will NEVER forget her. My thoughts, prayers, and love you all of you.
October 10, 2013
Eleanor Nagy
Dear Kevin, Dustin and Laura - I am joining you in gratefulness for Janet's life well-lived, a life of love, service, and contribution to her family, work, church and community. My heart goes out to you at this time of grieving. May you experience what David the Psalmist wrote: "The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down." (Ps. 145:14).
You are much in my thoughts and prayers.
October 10, 2013
The Veenstra's
What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful woman! Kevin, Laura and Dustin please know that our prayers lifted on your behalf....that in your loss you will feel the compassionate love of our Father in heaven.
October 10, 2013
Jeri Tulipan
Jeri Goldberg Tulipan, on behalf of the 1978 Class of Phoenixville High School
October 10, 2013
Lillian & Gary Barker
Dear Kevin & family,
Please accept our sincere sympathy at the loss of Janet. Your are in our thoughts & prayers.
October 10, 2013
Lee Matthews
Dear Kevin and family, I'm so sorry about Janet's passing, and the suffering I know it brings to each of you. I pray that the Lord will hold you all close and sustain you as you go forward.
October 10, 2013
Jennifer, Greg, Bradley, Amanda Huntington
We feel so thankful and blessed to have spent time with Janet and you all before we moved. Our hearts are sad for how much Janet will be missed by you all, her friends and her students. She freely gave so much of herself to so many. She has been so courageous through her illness and yet continued to give of herself through it all. We rejoice through the sadness to know she is fully restored with The Lord. Our prayers and sympathy are with all of you.
October 10, 2013
Barbara Dees
Hi Laura,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Barbara Dees
October 10, 2013
Sally Brown
Kevin and Family, I had the privilege of meeting Janet only once at a PAHS reunion. I thought that she was a very caring lady, very much in love with her husband. I am sorry for your loss of a special person.
October 10, 2013
Dear Kevin, Dustin and Laura,
Linda joins me in expressing our sincere condolences for your loss.
Janet was indeed a very special Lady who touched the hearts, minds and lives of so many people.
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you in the days ahead.
God Bless!
Linda and Gene Grubbs
October 10, 2013
Kevin, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Pat Kazmierksi Blain, Phoenixville AS
October 10, 2013
Mike and Stef Basca
We are missing a very special person. It was a true blessing to have her grace our lives. And what wonderful memories we have of your ever-cheerful Janet. Our sympathy and our prayers go out to you all.
October 10, 2013
Kathy (Taggart) DeWees
Kevin and family, My sincerest condolences on your loss of Janet. She was indeed a very special lady and has touched the hearts and lives of so many people.
October 10, 2013
Janice Zeleski-Endy
Kevin, Dustin, and Laura, Janet's passing is shared many times over by people here and elsewhere. Please know prayers have been offered and will continue for you and yours. I met Janet at our class reunion, and thought how blessed your family is to have someone so full of life, yet herself in time of need. Wanting to spend time with each and everyone of us there, and for us to share our lives with her. Her friendship warm and true even if only for a short time. Is something I will carry in my heart forever. Sharing in your sorrow. Janice Endy
October 10, 2013
Doris Applegate
Kevin, Dustin, and Laura,
Mere words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss nor give the comfort we would like. We give to God our prayers to wrap His loving arms around you all and give you peace. We thank Him for the wonderful example of courage, strength, and uplifting spirit evidenced in your wife and mother. She was an inspiration.
The Applegate Family
October 10, 2013
Bonnie Rideout
Dear Kevin, Dustin, and Laura, We will be there on Friday and Saturday. We love you. Adam and Molly are also sending their love and prayers from afar.
Love, Bonnie, Jesus, and Clarice Medrano.
October 10, 2013
Kevin, Dustin, and Laura,
Mere words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss nor give the comfort we would like. We give to God our prayers to wrap His loving arms around you all and give you peace. We thank Him for the wonderful example of courage, strength, and uplifting spirit evidenced in your wife and mother. She was an inspiration.
The Applegate Family
October 10, 2013
Tom Furlong
Never had the pleasure of meeting this obviously lovely woman, but God bless her and my sincere condolences to you Kevin, and your family.
October 10, 2013
Diana McClanahan
We are so sorry and saddened for the loss of such a precious and curageous woman....she is an inspiriation to all. What a fabulous teacher and friend to our children, who took the time to know their hearts. May the peace of God be with you always and your memories carried in the hearts of your loved ones Mrs. Smith, and give them strength. Fondly, The McClanahan Family
October 10, 2013
Christine Fisher
My arms are wrapped around you, Laura. I'm praying for you all.
October 10, 2013
Leonor Lee
What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful lady who lived life to the fullest and blessed so many. Thank you for sharing her story. May God tenderly carry you through this loss and deepen your faith in the one who will reunite us all in heaven.
With deepest sympathy,
Daniel and Leonor Lee
October 9, 2013
Kevin,
Cindy and I send our condolences to you and your loving family. We pray that you stay strong and please remember that you have a large extended family who send thoughts and prayers your way as well.
God Bless,
Rick and Cindy Martin (Pottstown)
October 9, 2013
Elisabeth Baker
Father-God, what an honor it has been to be touched by your grace through the heart of your lovely daughter, Janet. Thank you for the powerful love you have demonstrated to so many people through her, an example of your tender care to me.
Thank you for her husband and family, and for all the ways they have reflected and resonated with your love, to bring her comfort in the name of Jesus. Please bless their hearts and ours as we all look forward to fellowship with Janet again, forever -- with no more goodbyes.
October 9, 2013
Peggy Davidson
We have such fond memories of Janet in her classroom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Daryl, Peggy, Sam and Claire
October 9, 2013
Mandy Heckel
Dear Kevin, Dustin, and Laura I have been thinking of Janet all week.
My Melissa just showed me this on her Facebook page. I will keep you all in my prayers. Your mom was a wonderful friend and she will be missed by so many. May God give you all the strength to make it through this difficult time.
Love, Mandy Heckel
October 9, 2013
Barb Reed Higgins
So Sorry for your loss Kevin and family.
October 9, 2013
Barb Nelson
Class of Phx 72'
Dear Kevin we are all so very sorry to hear about the passing of your wife. We have all been following her journey as you posted on Facebook and have been sending prayers and well wishes her way. We are sad to see this news she sounded like such a strong loving wife, mother and teacher. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Barb Hughes Nelson
October 9, 2013
Sara Mathewson
Laura, I know we haven't talked in a long time, but I want you to know how sorry I am. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this terrible time.
October 9, 2013
Patti Davis
Janet's warmth and cheer made every person she touched feel extremely special. The world is lessened by the loss of her. God's peace to you, Kevin, and your dear children.
October 9, 2013
Jane Toal
Kevin and family, first let me say that this loving obituary examines the splendor of this beautiful woman, and her devoted family. Kevin, I am so deeply sorry for this loss. Please find comfort in knowing that she had a wonderful life, and is now out of pain, and resting comfortably with our Lord. I only wish I had the pleasure to meet this Godsend to you. Cherish all of the memories, as they last a lifetime...until you meet again. I know you are all making her so very proud, and she is smiling upon you, well and healthy, in His care. She wants her dear ones to move on. Love, Jane Taylor Toal. (Audubon, PA)
October 9, 2013
Hey Kevin, I am very sorry for your loss. I prayed for your wife every day. I am sure that her last conscious thought was the love that she had for you and her family. Jimmy Fuller- Williston , Florida
October 9, 2013
Peggie Bobo
Kevin, Dustin and Laura,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Janet was a sweet, bright light. Peggie and John, Reese , Anderson and Luz
October 9, 2013
Mandy Rockett
Janets smile and the love she had for others, especially her family, will remain with us for years to come. We are very thankful for the times we had with her. We love you guys
and will keep you in our prayers.
Love,
Jeremy, Mandy, and Caleb Rockett
October 9, 2013
Kevin, so sorry for your loss. May God give you and your family the strength to get through this most difficult time.
Billy Cramer, Pottstown, Pa.
October 9, 2013
Barbara Warner
Dustin, I am sadden to learn of your mother's death. My prayers are with your family at this time. May the comfort and peace of God flood your heart and mind.
October 9, 2013
Eleanor Keating
Sorry to hear of Janet's passing, may she rest in peace.
The Purdy/Keating family
October 9, 2013
Holly Garrow
Laura,
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. May God give you strength and peace at this most difficult time.
Love,Holly, Steve, Kyle and Cody Garrow
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