Sally graduated from Michigan State University in 1951. There she met and married her college sweetheart, Bruce Alan Smalley. Upon marriage, they became United Methodist missionaries and spent the next 11 years in Southern Rhodesia, where she taught sewing, cooking and other homemaking skills to the local African women. Sally was a true helpmate and partner to Bruce in all of life’s endeavors.
In 1963, the Smalleys moved back to the United States to live near her family in East Aurora, NY. In 1972, Bruce was offered a new job with Cooperative Extension in Belmont, NY. While in Belmont, they served the United Methodist Church, faithfully, for nearly 50 years.
Sally had 4 children of whom she was very proud. Fred (Julie) Smalley of Levan, Utah, Bob (Laurie) Smalley of Brant Lake, NY, Percillah (Mark) Woodard of Brockport, NY, and Carol (Bill) Tompkins of Belmont, NY. She was blessed with 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, whom she prayed for daily.
As a wife and mother, she was “all in.” Whether it was 4-H, a sporting event, school activity, or some other project, she was always there, supporting her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in anything that piqued their interest. Her generous heart, huge smile, infectious laugh and giving spirit contributed to a life well-lived.
A private family graveside service is being planned for a later date. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.
