Mabel Ruth Smylie

age 91, died on Tuesday, July 22 on Bainbridge Island. She was born in Severy, Kansas on August 2, 1916, four years before women could vote. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mary Finchum, by her four siblings, Lily, Thena, Dayton, and Jean, and her former spouses, George Hunter Smylie and Gene Earl Smylie. Mabel was a gifted student, graduated from high school at age 15, and began teaching following her graduation from Lewiston Normal School at age 17. She continued her love of teaching and helping others throughout the years. She acted as a tutor and mentor to immigrants coming to the area and was honored as a long time volunteer at Helpline House where some of her best times were spent helping Kay Nakao and others make soup for Tuesday night dinners for those in need.Mabel loved politics, books, quilting and taking care of her family. She was a "mom" to many and always ready to help in her quiet but insightful ways. She loved her children's friends as her own and enjoyed a multitude of treks to the beach, always with an idea of teaching about sea life and preservation of our environment. She was never critical, always positive and an inspiration to all who knew her.Mabel is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Tarry & Jim Decker, her three grandchildren, Anne Decker Wangthamkua, George Dayton Decker and Mary Hunter Decker, by her three great-grandchildren, Kathryn Smylie Wangthamkua, Benjamin James Wangthamkua, and Ruth Irene Covert Decker, and by her son George Hunter Smylie, II.The family wishes to thank her long-time physician Gregory Keyes, M.D. and also Frances Fladoos at Island Bay Adult Family Home for their outstanding care and support. A gathering in honor or Mabel's life will be held on August 2nd at the home of Tarry and Jim Decker, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. (annedw91@msn.com for directions)Memorials are suggested to the Bainbridge Island Fire Department or to Helpline House.