Alma M. (Merchant) Smith, 89, of Newell Road, passed away at The Lutheran Healthcare Center, Worcester, on Sunday, September 28, 2008. Her husband, Harold F. Smith predeceased her in 1972, as well as a son, David J. Smith, husband of Jane Smith of Dudley.

   Alma leaves four daughters, Barbara Lyons of Providence, RI, Linda wife of Barry Tupper of Holden, Priscilla wife of Gerald Davis of Webster and Shirley wife of Edward Tomlin of Benbrook, TX. She also leaves five sons, Harold Smith and his wife Joan Smith of Paxton, Robert Smith and his wife Carol Ann Smith of Paxton, John Smith of Oxford, Thomas Smith of Auburn, Ronald Smith and his companion Theresa Levins of Oakham; a brother, Stewart Merchant of Auburn; 19 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. A sister, Fernande Gleason and a brother, Charles Merchant, predeceased her. She was born in Laconia, NH, daughter of Desire J. and Josephine L. (Dionne) Merchant.

   Alma spent most of her adult life taking care of her 10 children. After her children were grown, she got her driver’s license and worked in the cafeteria at Wachusett Regional High School. Alma loved the outside during the summer caring for her flowers and having Sunday cookouts with her family. Alma’s family would like to thank the staff at The Lutheran Healthcare Center for their wonderful care and maintaining her dignity during her stay.

   Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1st, in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. The funeral service for Alma will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday in the funeral home with burial following in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Memorial donations may be made to the The Lutheran Healthcare Center, Resident Activities Fund, 26 Harvard St., Worcester, MA 01609.