Stella Viola (Hustus) Smith
PITTSFIELD – Stella Viola (Hustus) Smith, 83, of Pittsfield, passed away on June 14, 2024, in Portland. She was born on Feb. 14, 1941, in Pittsfield and attended MCI class of 1959.
Stella was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. She worked at the Edwards Co of Pittsfield and at Buds Shop and Save in Newport for over 20 years, where she received numerous customer service awards and the respect of her colleagues. Stella’s work family was very dear to her, and she made lifelong friends there, both among her associates and clientele who sought her out for her warmth and kindness.
In her free time, Stella enjoyed playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, walking, and gardening. She found great joy in nurturing her garden and watching it thrive.
Stella is survived by her children, Ron Ryder, Kathy (Ryder) Bouley, John Ryder, Stephen Shaw, and Stephanie Shaw; as well as her grandchildren, Katie (Raymond) Ray, Jennifer Raymond, Doug Kaelin, Stephanie Bouley, Dakota Ryder, and Gabrielle (Ryder) Hann; her great-grandchildren; and her sister, Gloria (Hustus) Brown.
She was preceded in death by her father, Chellis Hustus, mother, Grace (Sprague) Hustus; husband, Malcolm “Leigh” Smith Jr.; and brother, Wayne Hustus.
Stella will be dearly missed by all who knew her, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
A memorial service in honor of Stella’s life will be held at the Elks Lodge, 140 Middle St., Pittsfield, on July 13, from 12 tp 4 p.m. Please come and share your memories with us.
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