Catherine Shades Smith
Catherine Shades Smith, age 79, of Charlottesville, Virginia, passed peacefully at her home on October 14, 2023.
Born April 29, 1944, in Glasgow, Scotland, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Sarah Shades. She was preceded in death by her older brothers: Peter Shades and his wife Annie; John Shades and his wife Crissy; Alec Shades and his wife Ellen.
Catherine went to work in a sewing factory when she was 15 years old. She became a skilled seamstress and knitter. She later worked in several exclusive dress shops in America. She met and married William L. Smith, an American sailor in 1963. The couple traveled to America aboard the Queen Mary, and arrived in New York city on her birthday.
A devout Roman Catholic, Catherine was converted to Christ in an evangelistic meeting at the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, of Charlottesville, where she remained a member all her life. She also remained a British subject, never changing her citizenship. Catherine enjoyed hiking, running, Scottish Country dancing, and watching old classic movies.
Catherine is survived by her husband of 60 years, William L. Smith of Charlottesville, Virginia, and two daughters: Sarah Vickery of Georgia, and Heather Sylvain of North Carolina. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Michelle Ferguson, Kristen Lewis, Kellie O'Donnell, William Sylvain, Ian Sylvain, Catriona Riding, Conor Sylvain, McKenzie Sylvain, as well as seven great grandchildren. She also has several nieces and nephews across the pond.
The family would like to thank the congregation of Crosslife Community Church, our close neighbors, Family Medicine of Albemarle, and Hospice of the Piedmont for all their prayers, help and support.
Funeral services include a visitation on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at Hill and Wood Charlottesville at 6p.m. A funeral ceremony will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023, at Hill and Wood Charlottesville Chapel, at 1p.m., followed by a graveside at 2:30p.m. in Riverview Cemetery, 1701 Chesapeake Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, 22902.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Missions through Crosslife Community Church.
Condolences may be shared with the family on the Tribute Wall.
