Florence “Flo” Ella Buak Smith left this earth peacefully with a hand held by each of her children on Monday, March 29, 2021.  Known as Ticky to her family, and even a few not related, she has left a universe-sized hole in our collective hearts.

Born in Stamford, CT in 1945, Flo dedicated her life to the education and support of others through her work with the Virginia Beach Public School System and Virginia Beach’s Therapeutic program with Parks & Recreation.  Her career spanned 30 years as a special education assistant with Newtown Road and Pembroke Meadows Elementary students.  She continued her own education in her middle years finally fulfilling her dream of becoming a special education teacher for her final 5 years with the school system.

Actively involved with the Virginia Beach Education Association, Flo also volunteered with the Colonial Coast Girl Scout Council and worked as director for Camp Apasus in Norfolk and Camp Linkhorn in Virginia Beach.  She was a member of the Sweet Adelines International, performing barbershop style music with the local chapter, Boardwalk Sounds. She even worked with the Sun Wheelers for many years assisting with their local and traveling games.

Flo is survived by her children, Sharyn Lynch (Larry) and Bryan Smith (Courtney), brother Peter Buak (Sue), sister Kathy Buak, nephew Kyle Buak (Amanda), grandsons Nathan Smith, Jacob Smith, and Joey Lynch, grandniece Leila Buak and niece Danielle Frangione.  She is predeceased by her husband, Charles Davis Smith, her parents Joseph and Isabelle Buak, and younger brother George Buak.

Loved by many, the list of people that she considered family is endless. There was never a time when she didn’t open her heart and home to someone in need.

A plan to celebrate her life is forthcoming.  In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions in support of her desired Tribute Bench at Norfolk’s Botanical Gardens.  She enjoyed the gardens over the years especially after she retired and asked for her bench to have a beautiful view.  For information on how to contribute or to share any pictures or stories:  tributebenchforflo@gmail.com.