Marion “Skip” Smith, 97, formerly of Alford, died Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at her home in Great Barrington.
Marion was born in Stockbridge on January 3, 1925, the daughter of Charles and Mabel (Hathaway) DuPuy. She was raised at Chesterwood and was a graduate of the former Williams High School class of 1942. After high school, Marion attended the Merrill School of Business in Stamford, Connecticut, and worked as a secretary for the Nestle Company until 1946. Upon returning to the Berkshires, she took a position as bookkeeper for the Steven’s Grain Company (formerly at the top of Railroad Street in Great Barrington), where she met her husband-to-be, Russell Smith.
Russell and Marion were married for 58 years, during which they raised a large family on their small homestead in Alford.
Marion loved sharing her gift of music, and for over 15 years traveled as a volunteer with her small accordion to all the local nursing homes and senior centers, bringing the joy of music to so many others. She volunteered as an organist at many of the local churches and always jumped at the chance to play the piano, most recently playing next door at the Claire Teague Senior Center that she loved.
Her hands were rarely idle. When not playing music she was working on latch hook rugs or knitting, making hundreds of handmade gifts for family, friends, and neighbors. She was loved by many for her cheerful and generous ways.
Marion is survived by two sons, seven daughters, 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband and two sons.
Per Marion’s request, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to the Claire Teague Senior Center or HospiceCare in the Berkshires in care of Birches-Roy Funeral Home, 33 South St., Great Barrington, MA 01230.  Condolences can be made through the Birches-Roy website.
