Mary Lou Smith

Mary Lou Smith, 77, died unexpectedly on December 7, 2018 after an extraordinary life.

Having the distinction of serving her community as an elected official, she dedicated herself to the service of others. A pioneer ahead of her time, she was the first woman ever elected to serve on the Lacey Township Committee and in 1979 was selected by her peers to hold the position of Mayor - A post not previously held by a woman. During her time in office she was involved in the establishment of Hebrew Park, the formation of the Lanoka Harbor First Aid Squad, construction of the current police department, and negotiations to establish the Lacey Township Middle and High schools. She was also a member of the Lacey Township Planning Board, served as Police Commissioner, and chaired the Recreation Committee and the Administrative Committee.

Mary Lou continued her public service career as a member of the Lacey Township Board of Education. She was also a PTA president and PTA member for many years and was active in the Girl Scouts of America organization.

Born in Montclair, a lifelong resident of New Jersey, Mary Lou lived most of her life in Lacey Township. Mary Lou graduated from Clifford J. Scott High School in East Orange and she attended Berkeley Secretarial School in East Orange. She also has an Associates Degree from Ocean County College.

She started her career in the East Orange Health Department, first as secretary to the City Council Law Department then as Administrative Assistant to the Health Officer. She was also a board member of the Senior Citizens Housing Association in East Orange. After relocating to Ocean County with her husband, William, she was employed by the Dover Township Law Department as an Administrative Assistant. She worked as a legal secretary in Toms River and later was a Realtor for many years in Lacey Township

Mary Lou was predeceased by her beloved husband of 50 years William in August. They were inseparable, and they enjoyed spending time traveling together. She was predeceased by her parents, Frederick and Louise Longinetti formerly of Toms River and her grandniece Mikeylah.

She is survived by her daughter, Laura Spina, and her husband Anthony, of Forked River; her son William Smith and his wife Jennifer of Pine Beach; and her grandsons Shawn and Michael Spina of Forked River.  Also surviving are her sister and her brother in law, Claire and Tom McDowell and her niece Amy, of Bass River Township.

Mary Lou was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you send donations to the Lacey Township Police Department, the Lanoka Harbor First Aid Squad or the Lacey Township First Aid Squad.

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