Edward Thomas Smida

Edward Smida, age 89, of Ashburn, Virginia, formerly of Alliance, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 18th, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 6, 1935, in North Bloomfield, Ohio. His family owned Smida Farms where he worked diligently alongside of his parents Stephen and Martha and four siblings, Dick, Sue, Margaret and Steve. He excelled in both academics and athletics, actively participating in every school sport and club available to him. Notably, he hit the winning home run that secured the county championship for his high school baseball team. Edward also distinguished himself playing basketball and was crowned Homecoming King in his senior year.

Following his high school graduation, Edward attended Kent State University, where he met his future wife, Alice. Alice convinced him to forgo a planned weekend trip with his friends to help her clean the Catholic Church, and from that moment on they were inseparable. They were married on August 8, 1959, and shared 53 years of marriage before her passing in 2012.

Edward enjoyed a long and successful career with JCPenney, where he worked for 40 years, retiring in 1995. Over the course of his tenure with the company, he and his family relocated 11 times throughout the Northeast United States, living in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Delaware and New York. His dedication to his work earned him the respect and affection of his colleagues, and he was known for his loyalty and professionalism.

A strong believer in community service, Edward made significant contributions to the areas in which he lived and worked. He was an active member of the Chamber of Commerce, United Way, and the American Red Cross, serving on the boards of all three organizations. Additionally, he devoted 12 years of service to Rotary, including one year as President. He was honored as President of the Year and was the recipient of the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow recognition. Edward and Alice also spent 15 years volunteering for Meals on Wheels.

While Edward enjoyed watching Notre Dame football, traveling, socializing with friends, and playing games, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He and Alice prioritized their children and grandchildren above all else. They were steadfast in their support, never missing any of their children’s activities or sporting events. As grandparents, they found great joy in watching their grandchildren grow and cherished the many special trips they took together over the years. They never missed a holiday or a birthday, and made it a priority to visit for soccer matches, basketball games, and dance recitals. They exemplified the virtues of deep love and devotion to family, setting a lasting example for future generations. In December 2018, Edward left his longtime home in Alliance, Ohio, to live the final six years of his life near his family.

Edward is survived by his children: Ed (Hilary), Mike (Jamie), and Mary Tunstall (Lowell); as well as his five grandchildren: Andy, Lindsey, and Lauren Smida; Hilary Hetherington (Logan); and Jack Tunstall. A private family service will be held later this year in Ashtabula, Ohio, where he will be laid to rest beside his wife, Alice.