Penny Lynn Smith
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Penny's obituary
Obituary for Penny Lynn Smith
We are deeply saddened to announce that Penny Lynn Smith passed away on September 20, 2025, in Cancún, Mexico.
Penny was born on January 8, 1958, in Warren, Ohio, to Carl and Lillian McDivitt. She was the third oldest of six siblings. Penny had a zest for life and a wide range of passions—she loved animals (except spiders!), cooking, and music. She had a beautiful singing voice and was a talented pianist. In high school, she was a cheerleader and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rochester High School in 1976.
At fifteen, Penny met the love of her life, Curtis “Curt” Mark Smith. The two were high school sweethearts and married on August 27, 1976, beginning a lifelong partnership built on faith, loyalty, and devotion. They were married for over 49 years and together for more than 53—truly a testament to enduring love.
Curt often said that “Penny made him a better person and man, especially when he was younger because he could be such a knucklehead.” He also described her as “the most special person he had ever met—so genuine and full of love.” Their strong marriage was grounded in their shared faith in God, open communication, and quality time together. Penny would “never let the sun set in a provoked state,” and often joked that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—something that certainly applied to Curt. She was also known for her playful competitiveness, especially when trying to beat Curt home from a drive. Together, they shared a lifetime of happy memories—family gatherings, vacations, dinners out, and cozy evenings watching classic TV shows.
Penny was a devoted and loving mother to her four children—Melissa, Eric, Kyle, and Jenna—and a proud grandmother to Celton, Brennen, Oliver, and Marley. She was always there for her family, their biggest cheerleader in every pursuit and accomplishment.
In 1991, Penny and Curt moved from Warren, Michigan, to Land O’ Lakes, Florida, where they built a beautiful life together. Penny cherished time with family and friends, loved family reunions, and looked forward to “girls’ trips” with great friends like Martha and Maria, She found deep joy in making music—especially singing and playing piano with her father, sister Paula, and daughters Melissa and Jenna.
Penny adored her children and grandchildren and took pride in their many talents such as Eric's gift as an Artist. She treasured making jewelry with her sister Patsy, admired Pam’s photography, She had endless fun and laughs playing Catan, Rummy-cube, and Scrabble games with her family, Penny’s quick wit and sense of humor shone brightest in playful exchanges with her son Kyle and brothers Kurt and Mark.
Known as the queen of cookies, Penny’s cooking and baking were legendary among family and friends. She found joy in nurturing others through her culinary gifts, pouring love into every dish she made.
Penny began her day outside with her dog Sasha, admiring the birds, butterflies, and plants she so loved—marveling at God’s creation. She found peace at the beach, where she would watch the sunset and say she needed to “get her negative ions.”
A woman of deep faith, Penny dedicated her life to Jehovah through baptism on April 16, 1976. She loved sharing her faith, speaking to others about Jehovah God, Jesus, and the Bible’s promises of a better future. Her life was a reflection of her beliefs—filled with love, humility, empathy, and kindness. She taught those around her the importance of keeping God and family at the center of life.
Even in her toughest moments, Penny remained a source of warmth and positivity, always putting others before herself. She saw the good in everyone and had a heart overflowing with compassion.
Penny’s life was a testament to love, faithfulness, and joy. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her legacy continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched. May we all strive to live with the same unconditional love and unwavering faith that she so beautifully embodied.
Penny is survived by her husband Curt Smith; children Melissa, Eric, Kyle, and Jenna; grandchildren Celton, Brennen, Oliver, and Marley; and siblings Patsy, Pam, Paula, Kurt, and Mark. She is preceded in death by her parents Carl and Lillian McDivitt; mother-in-law Eleanor Carlson; and brothers-in-law Steve and Guy Smith.
Penny will be remembered as a shining example of love, faith, and grace. Her presence was a blessing—and she will remain forever etched in our hearts.
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