When I was 11 years old, my family moved here from California. My father was hired to work at Nalley’s Fine Foods by a gentleman I knew as “Mr. Smart.” Our family quickly became part of the Smart family. We were included in their BBQs, swam in their pool, and enjoyed countless wonderful times together.

When I was in junior high school, Mrs. Smart became a mentor to me through one of my after-school activities. She was always generous with her time and encouragement. We even held my parents’ combined 40th surprise birthday party at the Smart home. The connection between our families continued through the years, including the Christmas cards my parents and the Smarts exchanged every year.

Ten years ago, I had the honor of visiting Coke and asking her to be the very first cover of Lakeside Living, now known as Stroll Lakeside. She graciously declined my offer. I’ve always wished she had said yes—not only because she would have made a wonderful cover, but because having her there would have added such a special, nostalgic connection to my own history.

I know many of you have similar stories about Coke. She was a true friend to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a way of making people feel welcomed, valued, and part of her family.

Coke was married to Frederick Kellogg Smart II, “Fred,” on June 29, 1951. They remained married until Fred’s passing in 1996.

I will always be grateful for the memories our families shared and for the kindness Coke showed me throughout my life. She was truly a special part of my childhood and of our community, and she will be deeply missed.

Debbie McVicker, Publisher of Stroll Lakeside