Virginia ‘Ginger’ Smith 1948–2025

Ginger was born March 20, 1948, in Girard, a daughter of the late Herbert and Kathryn M. Zimmer Rice, and was a lifelong area resident.

She was a 1966 graduate of Girard High School and went on to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Youngstown State University.

Ginger devoted more than 40 years to education, teaching at St. Rose School.

A lifelong member of St. Rose Church, Ginger enjoyed listening to Irish music and, most of all, spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her stepchildren, Kim (Ed) Kossick, Mark (Karen) Smith and Scott (Marlene) Smith; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; her sisters, Marjorie O’Malley, Jean Rice and Elaine (Harry) Brenner; and many extended family members and friends.

She was very well loved by all who knew her and will be sadly missed.

Her husband of 36 years, Francis “Frank” Smith, whom she married Aug. 13, 1977, preceded her in death, Feb. 20, 2014.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a Memorial Mass at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, at St. Rose Church, 48 E. Main St., Girard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ursuline Motherhouse, 4250 Shields Road, Canfield, OH 44406.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Girard. Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to share this obituary and to send condolences to Ginger’s family.

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