Willa Smith, 95

Willa Smith, 95, of Waterloo, died at Sartori Memorial Hospitalon Tuesday, March 18, 2014.

She was born December 14, 1918 in Traer, Iowa, daughter of Dr. William and Martha Powell (Esq.) Wagner.

Willa married Blair Eugene Hunter June 23, 1941; he died October 8, 1970. She married Ray Smith Jr. on April 16, 1978; he died September 30, 1990.

She graduated from Traer High School in 1936, Iowa State University with a BS in Dietetics in 1941; Iowa State Teachers College with a BA in Music Education, and a Master Degree in Music Education from UNI in 1963.

During WWII she worked as a dietician for the ASTP Unit at Iowa Memorial Union in Iowa City. After returning to college and earning her Master’s Degree in Music Education, she taught vocal music at Reinbeck Community Schools from 1964-1978. In 1980 she became music coordinator and choir director at Trinity Episcopal Parish in Waterloo, retiring in 2005.

Willa was a member of the Eastern Star and Worthy Matron of Coinette Lodge in Reinbeck. She was an Elklett and a member of the American Association of University Women.

She is survived by her daughter Jo Capoccioni and grandson Hunter Capoccioni, both of Waterloo. Willa was preceded in death by her parents and husbands.

Memorials to Trinity Episcopal Parish or Cedar Bend Humane Society. Condolences may be left at www.LockeFuneralHome.com. *