Maribeth Smith

Maribeth Smith of Avon Park passed away Saturday, March 24, 2018 at the Florida Hospital in Sebring.

Maribeth was born in Chad, Africa, on October 11, 1945, to missionary parents, Francis and Martha Fogle. She came to the United States at the age 13 to attend high school and Bible school. She married Don Peterson, and together they adopted Michelle. The Peterson family served as missionaries in Central Africa Republic for several years but had to return to the United States due to Don’s failing health. They served as missionaries to the military in Tacoma, WA. In Tacoma, both Don and Michelle preceded her to heaven.

Maribeth moved to Sebring, FL, in June of 1998. There she met and married Newell A. Smith (Andy) on August 28, 1998. She was very active at Bethany Baptist Church as pianist, writing/directing music and skits, and working with Sunshine Missionary Ladies Fellowship. In addition, she was known as an excellent cook.

Survivors include her husband, Andy; siblings, Lois (Jerry) Wilson, Col. Philip (Betty) Fogle, Timothy (Vicki) Fogle, Thomas (Penny) Fogle, Dr. Larry (Sallie) Fogle, and Dale (Debbie) Fogle; sons, Stephen (Melodie) Smith and Wade Smith; and two grandchildren, Kailey and Jake Smith.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 30, 2018 at the Bethany Baptist Church 798 County Road 17a South, Avon Park, Florida 33825 with Rev. Bill Martin officiating. Interment will follow at the Silver Hill Cemetery in Frostproof.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Baptist Mid-Missions Foundation at Post Office Box 308011, Cleveland, Ohio 44130-8011.