Abigail “Ash” Elaine Smith, 24, of Grafton, passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2023, as a result of an automobile accident, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital with family by her side. She was born April 29, 1998, in Clarksburg, daughter of Sharon L. Smith, of Grafton, and Brian K. Smith and wife Beverly, of Bridgeport.
In addition to her parents, Ash was survived by her loving boyfriend, Travis Hare, of Morgantown; maternal grandmother, Elizabeth A. Beltner and adopted grandfather, Roy Yerkovich, both of Grafton; two stepsiblings, Bree Exline, of Flemington, and Jenna Stinson, her husband Cody and their daughter Macy Jo, of Buckhannon; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and many friends. Ash was preceded in death by her grandfather, William I. Beltner; grandmother, Judith Elaine Skeen; grandfather, Robert L Smith; and grandmother, Claire L. Smith.
Ash graduated from Grafton High School, Class of 2016. She was a material handler outbound, Gabriel Brothers in Morgantown, the saving grace that turned her life around. To quote a coworker, “she was a breath of fresh air” and “did everything with perfection.” It was there that she met the love of her life, Travis. To see the love, he showed her in such a short time is something her parents could never repay. It was unconditional love, which she deserved more than anyone we know. Although we may never know why God needed her back, she was conceived from love and is the best thing that ever happened to us. We knew from the beginning she was something special. She had a heart of gold, one that holds no judgement, a special place for the homeless, a special place for animals (she even tried saving bugs that got in the house), and a heart that flowed with kindness and forgiveness. We are so proud that she decided to be an organ donor, to share her gifts.
She gave the best advice and caused others to see a different perspective. In addition to her sense of humor and one of a kind laugh, her intelligence was off the charts and her wisdom was well beyond her years. There are no words that can articulate how much she will be missed. In addition to saving lives, I hope she knows how much she was loved and how many lives she enriched just by being here. Fly high, sweet angel, and know that you will be held in our hearts forever and we will never let anyone forget you. The love and support we have been receiving is just phenomenal.
We ask that in lieu of sending flowers to us, that you hold off until we decide on a place we know she would want donations to go to. There will be a celebration of life at a later date. Bartlett Funeral Home and Crematory is handling the arrangements and is honored to serve the Smith family.
Condolences:
www.bartlettfuneralhomewv.com
