"I was very sorry to read of Melvin's passing. We have had a strong connection with the family over the years from the time I first met you, Mary, when Ann was a member of your Girl Scout troop. The days of girl scout cookie sales. My sympathy to the family, Robert, Mary Jean, and Julia in a more special way from our time shared together at RHHS. Pat Hayden"
In loving memory of
Melvin Clement Smith
November 25, 2023 - January 28, 2012
Melvin C. Smith, 88, died Saturday, January 28, 2012 at Saint George Village in Roswell, Georgia with loving family by his side. Born in Hartford, CT on November 25, 1923, he was the son of Hiram B. and Mary C. Smith. He graduated from Bulkeley High School, Trinity College and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He was a proud Army veteran, serving during WW II and the Korean Conflict. Following his military service, he established the Connecticut Real Estate Exchange and taught real estate courses at the University of Hartford. He also worked for the City of Hartford Redevelopment and for the State of CT Highway Department. He built and managed several HUD apartment homes as well.
In 1971 Melvin Smith opened the Elm Hill Convalescent and Rest Home in Rocky Hill, CT which he operated for 30 years with his wife Mary. Conceived as a family venture to care for aging parents, he immersed himself in both daily operations and industry improvements in nursing home care. He took great joy in helping others, and providing care to the elderly and employment to the community.
Melvin is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mary Jennison Smith, and his five children, Catherine Bissell of Atlanta, GA, Susan Scarrozzo of Berlin, CT, Dr. Robert M. Smith of Hartford, CT, Mary Parker of Nantucket, MA, and Julia Smith of Wyomissing, PA. He also leaves his 14 grandchildren, Charlotte, Sarah and Christopher Bissell, David and Emily Birdsall, Kristi and Jay Scarrozzo, Kenneth and Katherine Smith, Benjamin, Adam and Ethan Parker, and Paul and Mary Monsour who provided him much happiness in his lifetime.
A memorial service will be held at the Rocky Hill Congregational, United Church of Christ on Saturday, Feb 18, at 11 am. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association (P. O. 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312 or online) or to Trinity College (Development, 300 Summit St., Hartford, CT 06106 or call 800-771-6184).
Arrangements by Byars Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 155 Professional Park Drive, Cumming, Georgia. Online condolences at byarsfuneralhome.com
Tributes
"Mary and family, What profound sadness I feel on the news of Mel's passing. Elm Hill was my first venture into LTC, as an R.N., back in 1979, when I was the 11-7 supervisor. I stayed for 10 wonderful years, in part because of Mel's obvious love for the facility, and how wonderful he was to me, as an employee. He was a terrific guy, and, we were all enriched for having known him. My condolences to you all. Bonnie Riley Lewandowski Suffield, Connecticut"
"Mary and family, I rented from you the little house in Avon from 1979-1985. I had many interesting conversations with Mel; he was a thoughtful person and showed me many kindnesses. My condolences on his passing and the best to all of you.Brian LennonAvon, Connecticut"