Shirley Ellen (Toothaker) Smith, 71, of Woodbury lost her battle with cancer on March 7, 2011. She passed away surrounded by her family, the thoughts of happier times and the love of her friends from around the world. Born in Portland, Maine in 1939, she spent her formative years on the islands of Maine in the Brunswick area. She has maintained many friendships from these years and holds Maine as her true "special" place. She married Michael N. Smith of Brunswick, ME in September of 1959. They raised their four children in Newtown, CT until divorcing in 1983. Shirley was an active member of the Newtown community, always involved with groups that promised to help create a better future. Her passions were flowers and people. They always seemed to get the same love and attention. Her greatest commitment was to the American Field Service (AFS) where she served as a regional Vice President. Her house was always filled with foreign exchange students. She felt the trading of ideas and cultures represented the path to greater human understanding and could lead to a better world. This had always been one of her great hopes. Later in life she moved to Woodbury, CT and spent her time travelling and enjoying friends and her grandchildren. She remained active with the Woodbury Garden and Women's clubs.
Shirley leaves behind her partner of 21 years Joe Ruseski, four children, Brooke, Gretchen, Nathaniel and Evan, and ten grandchildren.

Memorials: none specified

Cemetery: Cemetery Not Applicable

Location: Munson-Lovetere Woodbury

Funeral: Church Not Applicable

Services: A celebration of her life will be held April 3rd, 2011 at the Heritage Hotel in Southbury, CT at 12 noon.

Visitation: There are no calling hours.