Charlene Smith
May 31, 2006
Bonners Ferry native Charlene Smith, 58, passed away at Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur d’Alene Tuesday, May 30, 2006. Funeral services were held at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Bonners Ferry and she was laid to rest in Grandview Cemetery.
Charlene was born in Bonners Ferry to Ray and Ruth Plumlee November 8, 1947. She attended Bonners Ferry schools and worked at the A&W and at Taft's store until her high school graduation in 1966. She briefly attended Community College in Spokane, and married Jon Zimmerman November 18, 1967.
She returned to Bonners Ferry in 1974, working as a deputy clerk at the Boundary County Courthouse. On June 18, 1977, she married James M. Smith II in Bonners Ferry, and the couple moved to Copeland in 1981. She started her own business in 1983, :Charlene's Shoe Biz" from the Boardwalk Boutique.
In May, 1987, she married Earl Nye, and a short time later took over the Columbia Travel travel agency, work she adored.
On November 13, 1993, she and James were remarried, and they made their home on Meadow Creek Road. Over the last few years, Charlene continued to operate her travel agency from her home, and she also worked at Boundary Trading Company, where her vibrant personality made her a favorite of customers and co-workers alike.
Charlene's greatest joy came from her family and friends, and the time she spent with them and experiencing new things was the greatest joy of her life. She took great pride in her home and garden, and loved filling both with beautiful things. She lived her life with generosity, grace and joy.
She is survived by her husband, Jim; mother Ruth Plumlee, Bonners Ferry; sister Sandra Fulgham, Libby, Montana; and children Jolene Sanders, Seattle. Wendy Bertling, Moyie Springs, Hennifer Balzer, Asotin, Washington, Alichia Eby, Bonners Ferry, Jessica Smith, Seattle, James Smith III, Rock Springs, Wyoming, and Gabrielle Nye, Bonners Ferry; six grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Ray Plumlee.
Originally published on the website - Kootenai Valley Press - May 31, 2006
www.kvpress.com/obituaries/2006/0530smith.htm
