Elsbeth “Oma” Smith

She was also affectionately remembered by many Island children as “Oma.”

May 25, 1937 – April 16, 2025

Elsbeth Smith, 87 years old, born May 25, 1937, in Giessen, Germany, died April 16, 2025, in her home on Vashon.

In 1955 she met her loving husband Jim while working as a cook at the Army base near her home where Jim was stationed. They were married in May of 1957 in Germany. Three months later she followed him to his home in Renton, Washington. She was welcomed with open arms by the large Smith clan. They soon started their family: Brian, born in 1957, Brock in 1959, and Brigitte in 1962. Susan joined the family later, first as a foster child, then later adopted as their daughter.

The family moved to Vashon in 1967, first to Dockton and then to the Portage Store in 1969, where they raised their family and created a vibrant, eclectic community. It became a stop off for many who sought groceries, sundries, and words of wisdom delivered by Jimmie from the porch. Many children came from all over for Elsbeth’s penny candy table and her famous pickled eggs. She welcomed children who had missed their bus, needed a snack, or a listening ear for what they might tell. Many times you’d find them on the porch playing Backgammon or cards around the potbellied stove.

The many years of the Portage Store ended sadly in 2001. They moved to Morgan Hill to a brand new home where she enjoyed the luxury of electric heat and a dishwasher. A favorite pastime was watching her children and grandchildren playing baseball and ringing her cowbell enthusiastically cheering them on. She was also affectionately remembered by many Island children as “Oma”.

Elsbeth was preceded in death by her husband, Jim, her son Brian and her grandson Greg. She is survived by her 3 children, 13 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She spent her final years in the home of Brigitte & Randy Webb, surrounded by many friends and family members, including her sons Brian and Brock who provided additional loving care.

A memorial service will be held on June 21 at 2 pm, at The Vashon Sportsmen’s Club at 19720 Singer Rd SW, Vashon, 98070. Please bring finger food or a dessert and story to share. In lieu of flowers, donations in Elsbeth’s name can be made to the Vashon Care Network.org or to the Vashon Care Network, P.O. Box 13135, Vashon, Washington, 98070.