Sandra Jean Smith, 78, of Traverse City, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. She was born January 26, 1948, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, the daughter of Emil and Margaret (Varga) Pavlovics.

Sandra. Wife. Mother. Mimi (to her granddaughters). Sister. Friend. Teacher. She touched the lives of so many because of her kind and nurturing spirit. She taught kindergarten and first grade students for 42 years in the Catholic school system in the Metro Detroit area. She loved her students. She especially enjoyed working with students who had learning challenges; she loved to see the light in their eyes when they had the “aha!” moment.

For recreation she loved spending time with her family and doting on her beautiful granddaughters. She enjoyed camping and vacationing with her husband, Ray, and their two Frenchies. She continued her adventures page to page through a wide range of literature. Another favorite pursuit was watching and feeding the wildlife in her backyard, especially the birds. Decorating for the Michigan seasons and holidays gave her much joy.

Sandra will be profoundly and painfully missed by her husband of 46 years, Raymond Smith of Traverse City; daughters, Nikolette (Nicholas) DesJardins and Kallie (Andrew) Mekemson; granddaughters, Maisy & Stella DesJardins and Harper & Holland Mekemson; brothers, Emil (Lydia) Pavlovics and Richard (Christi) Pavlovics; numerous nieces, nephews, and many former friends and students who lovingly knew her as “Ms. Sandy”.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Thursday, February 26, 2026, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1025 S Union Street, Traverse City, Michigan 49684 with the Rev. Michael Lingaur celebrant. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until time of Mass at the church and a luncheon will follow in the parish hall. Visitation will also be held from 4-7 PM, Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, 511 S Garfield Avenue, Traverse City, Michigan 49686.  The Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 PM.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com