Marie Luise Reitschmidt Smith

Marie Luise Smith, 78 of Kill Devil Hills, NC, beloved wife of Roger J Smith (deceased), passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at Spring Arbor Assisted Living.

Marie was born on December 13, 1947, in Giesen, Germany to the late Heinrich Ludwig Reitschmidt and Marie Port Reitschmidt. Marie was raised and lived in Butzbach, Germany until marrying Roger and making their home in Connecticut.

Born and raised in Germany, Marie met the love of her life, Roger, while he was stationed in Germany serving in the US Army. A brave young Marie left Germany with Roger on a wonderful new adventure in the US and were married for 59 beautiful years. Roger and Marie resided in Connecticut and during that time welcomed two sons, Michael John Smith (1966) and Roger Heinrich Smith (1976). Ready to again explore something new, they moved to the Outer Banks in the mid 1980’s, to experience “beach life”. While enjoying the Outer Banks, Marie expanded her love of decorating while working for Kellogg Supply in Duck for over 15 years as a merchandiser and assistant buyer until retiring and moving to Winston Salem. After many years in Winston Salem, uncovering special places in the foothills and NC mountains, it was time to move back closer to family and they returned to the Outer Banks in 2022.

Marie is survived by her loving sons, Michael J. Smith and wife Amy of Kitty Hawk, NC; Roger H. Smith of Eugene, OR; two grandchildren of whom she was so very proud, Zachary A. Smith and husband Kyle of Washington, DC, Abby N. Smith of Kitty Hawk; brother Erwin Parr (Hilde); wonderful niece Ute Polzer and many extended family in Germany.

In addition to her parents, Marie was predeceased by Roger J Smith, husband & soulmate of 59 years, her loving daughter-in-law Heather Chessman (Roger); and brother and sister-in-law Werner & Mechtildt Reitschmidt.

Marie’s soft spoken, gentle personality shined through in all she did. Marie found great joy in caring for and nurturing her indoor plants and their home was always full of natural beauty in every corner. Marie loved to decorate and her special touches were amazing from home décor to gift wrapping. The best part of birthdays and Christmas were attempting to untie the maze of ribbons and uncovering the gifts she so expertly wrapped.  However, she was, most of all, a loving wife (Schatz), mother (Mom) and grandmother (Omi).

At a later time, the family will hold a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a local charity of your choice.  A special thank you to the Staff of Outer Banks Spring Arbor, Albemarle Hospice and Gallop Funeral Services for their dedication and care of Marie during this time.