Ginger Smiley

Johnnie  "Ginger"  Smiley

of North Orwell,  PA

Those unable to attend the service may watch the live stream ~ Click Here:

To Watch Ginger's Video Tribute ~ Click Here:

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Johnnie Grace "Ginger" Smiley, a beacon of love and joy, peacefully passed away at her home on March 27, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on December 23, 1940, in Sayre, Pennsylvania, Ginger's life was one of passionate dedication to her family, friends, and the simple pleasures that brought a smile to her face and those around her.

Ginger was a proud graduate of Towanda High School's class of 1959, where she was an active member of the Triple Trio and Jr. Choir, and showcased her musical talent by playing the string bass. During her high school years, she brought warmth to those around her while waiting tables at the Towanda American Legion. Her educational and early work experiences laid the foundation for a life filled with love and service to others. Ginger worked at Herr’s Dairy Bar and Ames Department Store, but her true calling was as a homemaker. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose greatest joy came from the love and care she poured into her family. Her interests were a reflection of her nurturing soul. Ginger's flowers were a testament to her love of nature, and the birds that visited her feeder brought her endless delight. Ginger's love for music continued throughout her life, and she enjoyed singing with all her heart.

Ginger and Robert began their married life on January 18, 1964, and moved to a farm in Liberty Corners before moving to LeRaysville, PA. She was an active member of her community and participated in the Minstrel. She will be remembered for always being ready to contribute her famous pies to community dinners. Her loving spirit was a cornerstone of every gathering, and her kindness touched the lives of many. In 1987, they later made their home in North Orwell, Pa. She loved the hills of Pennsylvania and the friendliness of each community they resided in. Her faith was a vital part of her life, and she was a member of the Waverly Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses where her faith-filled spirit was an inspiration to many.

Ginger was the loving matriarch of a large and vibrant family, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and kindness. She was a loving wife to her late husband, Robert Smiley, with whom she shared 49 years of marriage until his passing on September 30, 2013. Together, they raised a beautiful family, including their children Cheri and Lynn Bassett, Lori Smiley and James Buskirk, Jodi and John Snyder, Penni Smiley Maloney and Dennis Maloney, Bobbi Jo Smiley, Robert C. Smiley and Amber Smiley. She was a guiding light to her 19 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren, who will carry her legacy forward. Ginger was also a cherished sister to Gerald Simmons, Marjorie Kirk, William (Patricia) Simmons, Michael Simmons, Susan Esan, Victoria Wooten, David (Sheila) Bunch; she will also be missed by several nieces, nephews, and their families. She also leaves behind her special friends Olney Bullock and Brenda Mooney who will fondly remember the times shared with Ginger.

She is now reunited with her beloved son, James Edward Smiley, who predeceased her on October 15, 2021; she was also welcomed into heaven by the love of her adoptive parents, Winifred and Charles Young; her parents, Gerald Simmons and Mary Gordon; her sisters Lucy Simmons and Mary Jane Simmons and a brother-in-law: Tony Kirk.

Ginger's journey through life was marked by the love she gave and the love she received. As her family and friends reflect on her life, they will remember a woman whose heart knew no bounds and whose kindness shaped the world around her. We will gather on Saturday, April 5th from 1-3 pm for a period of visitation at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A celebration of her life will follow at 3 pm. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com

Those unable to attend the service may watch the live stream ~ Click Here:

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Ginger was described by those who knew her as loving, kind, and thoughtful, her presence was a gift to all. Her actions were guided by the wisdom of the Bible verse from Galatians and she lived by these words: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”