Mrs. Carmelita M. Lomeo-Smrtic

Dr. Carmelita M. Lomeo-Smrtic, Ph.D., of , passed away on Friday, January 8, 2016 in the comfort of her home with her loving family by her side. She had waged a long and heroic battle. Born in New Hartford on October 23, 1963, Carmelita was the daughter of Simon and Marie (Butera) Lomeo. She was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. In 1983 she received her A.A. in Science at MVCC; in 1985 she earned her B.A. in Psychology and Human Services, Early Childhood from SUNY Buffalo; in 1986 she was awarded her M.A. in the area of Early Childhood Specialist at Boston College. In 1998, upon receiving her Ph.D. in the Child and Family Studies Program at Syracuse University, she joined the faculty at MVCC. On May 8, 2004 she married Professor James Smrtic. Dr. Lomeo-Smrtic held the rank of Professor while she was Education Program Coordinator and Director of Education. She was a consultant, writer, and teacher. She developed curriculum and served in leadership roles in numerous local, state, and national professional organizations. Carmelita was renowned by her colleagues. She was an accomplished professional in all areas of academe, and was widely cited in professional journals. However, her greatest passion was for her students and teaching. She was proud to be the founder of the Education Club that served as a forum to allow students access to mentorship opportunities. Her pedagogical objective was to help students attain excellence in their profession by offering them the skills and opportunities to become teachers of the highest caliber. She was a dynamic and outgoing educator who showed genuine concern for those in all facets of education. She was very humble of heart with respect to her achievements. Through her compassion, understanding, and brilliance, she influenced the lives of countless students, and her impact will be felt for generations to come. She received the MVCC Excellence in Teaching Award in 2003 and the SUNY Chancellor’s Award the following year. Her greatest recognition was to receive the Vivian C. Kinney Lifelong Friends of Children Award in 2015. She had eclectic interests including gourmet cooking, crocheting baby blankets for students, friends, and family, and riding with the top down in her Mercedes with the music blaring. Carmelita is survived by her husband, Professor Emeritus James D. Smrtic; her parents, Simon and Marie Lomeo of Whitesboro; her sisters and brother-in-law, Jacquelyn and Paul Webster of VA, and Carolyn and Will Kropp of Rochester; her nieces and nephews, Bradford Webster, Noelle Webster, both of VA; her stepchildren, Jennifer and Steven Cohen of CA, and James A. and Dolly Smrtic of MD; her step-grandchildren, Olivia Cohen, Parker Cohen; and Tristan James Smrtic. Carmelita was happy to know that another step-grandchild will be born in June. She will also remain in the hearts of her aunts and uncles, Jack and Charlene Lomeo of MS, Paul and Betty Joan Beaudry-Lomeo, and Carolyn Conte; many cousins; in-laws, George and Joan Smrtic of Auburn, NY; and many special friends. She was predeceased by her infant sister, Paula. A Memorial Gathering and visitation will be held on Thursday from 5:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Carmelita’s memorial service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday evening at 7:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation.

Mrs. Carmelita M. Lomeo-Smrtic

October 23, 1963 - January 8, 2016