Announcement of Death
Lois Jane (Hardy) Wilt, aged 99, passed away peacefully on September 27. Her long life was marked by grace and dedication, and she will be deeply missed.
Biography
Lois Densmore Smith was born in Rushford, NY, where she was raised in a musical family. Her father served as the town doctor, while her mother was the church organist. In fact, Lois would sometimes help operate the organ by pushing its pipes with a force similar to that of the instrument itself! She pursued her passion for music, graduating from Houghton College with a flute solo performance and later earning an M.F.A. in Accompanying. Lois became well-known for her patience and quiet faithfulness to family and friends.
Over the years, she contributed to her community by serving on various boards, including WRCS Radio, Martin Luther Homes, and Christian Valley Church. Lois was also an active participant in Lutheran Church quilting groups and regional LCMS synods. She worked tirelessly alongside her sons, Mark, Dan, and Morehouse, while following Ken, Dale, Guy, and Slashinski to hay operas, cow chip raffles, and other community events.
Loved Ones
Lois is survived by her sons, Mark and Dan, who worked closely with her on many projects. She was also a dedicated friend and supporter of her community.
Memorial Services
Her ashes will be taken to Rushford, MN, where her legacy will live on and she will not be forgotten.
Hobbies
Lois found joy in quilting with the Lutheran Church quilters, and she was a strong supporter of events like cow chip raffles and Week Junkets Airborne Angel events. Music remained a central part of her life, and she continued to share her gift of accompanying well into her later years.
Closing Thoughts
Lois’s remarkable life was recognized in many obituaries, including those in the Worcester Telegram, Akron Beacon Journal, Charleston Gazette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and Beaver County Times. Her hometown of Rushford will always remember her, and her story, as told in the Scranton Times and Richmond Times Dispatch, is a true reflection of a life lived with grace and kindness.
