Former member of the the Blue Ridge School Board of Trustees Wendi Smith of Charlottesville, Virginia, died on January 16, 2020. In addition to serving on the Board from 2005 – 2014, she was a long-time member of the New York Auxiliary, an organization that has supported Blue Ridge School continuously since 1909. While her contributions to the NYA and School were both many and memorable, it is her irrepressible energy that made the greatest lasting impact. Whether leading the charge for an event or contributing worldly-wise insight in a Board Room, Smith led with her heart and made many, many friends along the way.

Wendi was also an important connection point between Blue Ridge, Charlottesville, and New York City. Her ability to remain connected in all three worlds – and to help keep them spinning in complementary orbits – was a priceless gift for us all. She gave far more to all of us than she received, and surely made the NYA and BRS far better as a result.

Professionally, Smith was the founder and President of Leftover Luxuries, an innovative interior design resource based in Charlottesville. Her retail store was wildly popular among collectors, dealers, and decorators, alike – all of whom treasured her creative eye and spirit.

Headmaster Trip Darrin shares these sentiments. “When my wife, Karen, and I came to Blue Ridge in 2006, Wendi Smith was one of the first people we met. Wendi was a part of many of the major moments in our first several years at Blue Ridge, and was someone we relied upon to always have a positive outlook no matter the challenge. She always brought a smile, her remarkable laugh, and when she committed to action, it always got done. We will miss her greatly.”