Annette SMITH Obituary

I just found out today that lovely Annette has passed away. I was a second year teacher at Pukete Primary School in 1987 and Annette was my mentor and we shared the teaching in one of the first open plan classroom in NZ. Annette taught me so much and I still remember how calm and patient she was with me and the children. We kept in touch for many years but unfortunately we didn't have a lot of communication in the last few years. Annette means a lot to me and I send my love to Gordon, her children and wider family. Lots of love Liz Storrie

I was very sad to hear of Annette´s passing. Annette contributed immensely to children's literature, and I am proud of the books we collaborated on.

The first book I illustrated for Annette was *Ant City* in 1997. This was just the beginning of our partnership, which included the *Max and Grandad* series, *The Dog Called Bear* series, and many more stand-alone books. We had a great team at Cengage Publishing, and we all enjoyed working with Annette.

I considered Annette both a colleague and a friend, and I will miss our chats.

Annette was DP at Pukete School, when our paths crossed. She was a very kind and caring person, our middle child didn't like school, but I would walk him to school and Annette would takeover his care. As close neighbours she often saw our dog the Irish Setter (Steve), hence "A dog called Bear", our children have copies of her book. It was a beautiful farewell to her yesterday.

My thoughts are with you and the family at this sad time Gordon. Please accept my sincere condolences

We were so very saddened to hear the news of Annette.
Annette was a wonderful mentor and such a dear friend to us. It started with a phone call over 20 years ago. Right from the start her energy and passion to empower me and my colleague Mary Meadway and so many other teachers never wavered.
So much of our success as teachers and literacy consultants was implementing her strategies in the classroom and then in the schools we worked with all around the world.

Annette continually contributed to the lives of others throughout her life. She has definitely left a legacy for so many, including ourselves and every child and teacher lucky enough to be inspired by both her and the many resources she wrote.
Annette´s legacy will last and will empower the teaching of literacy for many generations to come.

Our love and condolences to Gordon and his family.

Rose Carr
Mary Meadway

To The Smith Family,
With sadness I heard today of Annette's passing. I met Annette at Pukete School in the mid 1990s. Annette gave the opportunity to become a Teacher Aide, which I am still doing now in my early 70s. Annette was an inspiration and her books have helped so many children to learn, and enjoy reading. I often say to the children that I work with, " I know this lady, I used to work with her at my sons school". Annette gave the gift of learning to so many children over the years. One very amazing woman. Jane Lyttle

So sad to hear the news of Annette´s unexpected passing.
Thinking if you all, Gordon, Craig, Julie, your families, also Tony, Bev, Colleen along with their late sister Melva and their fun-loving parents. They were all so close and supportive of our lovely mum.
Annette will be fondly remembered by her South Island cousins
Chris, Marilyn, Adrienne & Andrew x

I first met Annette at a reading conference in the United States in 2001. Little did I know it would lead to a dear friendship spanning over two decades from one side of the earth to the other. We connected like sisters and, when our husbands bonded on the golf course later in NZ, the friendship was sealed. We visited via Skype frequently and savored our handful of visits in both the US and NZ. I have a favorite memory from the most recent visit the Smiths made to the States. Annette wanted to visit my daughter´s kindergarten class. It was only the 4th day of the new school year, which was a little soon for a classroom visitor. Not to worry... Annette had the children in the palm of her hand within seconds. It was such a joy to see her in her element. What a gift she had for luring children into the world of literacy! I will miss this grand lady but I know that she will continue to be an inspiration for generations to come. My heart goes out to all of the Smith family. May you always feel her love within you.

My heart is very sad for all of you. A loved memory is Annette making fairy sandwich for our grandchildren. Her generosity taking the time to visit William's school and sharing one of her books with his class. Williams teacher thought Will was telling stories when,he said is Aunty wrote the books. We treasure our visits, and Annette I will keep my on.

Annette was always such a graceful lady. So sad to hear the news. I'm taking her PM Readers to Rarotonga the end of July that she gave me for the children there. She was always committed to helping so many children to experience the joy of reading. Sending love to you Gordon.

To Gordon, Craig, Roslyn, Julie, Brigette, Monique and Callum.
Annette leaves behind a light that will never dim or fade
It's kept bright by the love you feel and the memories you have made.
It can warm you like a candles glow and help bring comfort, too.
And no matter where you go , you'll find it's always close to you.
And in darker times remember in your hearts Annette's light is strong.
So every time you think of her, her memory shines on.
Thinking of you all......during this, sad, sad time. Lots of love. Kay and Gary Siegelxxxx

Our very dear friend of 46yrs has - Gone from our sight but never forgotten Love always
Carla & Graeme Rix
Gordon we are thinking of you and your family during these difficult times Rix Family xx