Milrene Smith, 71, of Binghamton, passed away Aug. 23, 2013 after a brave and determined 46 year struggle with Multiple Sclerosis. She was predeceased by her infant daughter, Heather Smith and her parents, Milton and Irene Shepler of Oxford, N.Y. She is survived by a brother Eric Shepler of Otego, N.Y., two sisters: Linda Shepler of Ellenton, FL. and Rebecca Dupree of Endwell, and several nephews and nieces.
After graduating from high school she went on to work in advertizing at Fowler’s, the Sun-Bulletin and later the Binghamton Press. In 1962 Milrene was married to Kenneth Smith. In 1967 Milrene was diagnosed with MS. She chose an experimental treatment that resulted in over six years of remission from MS. As symptoms began to return Milrene devoted her energies to fighting for the rights of the disabled. She was always the first to try out new services offered the disabled, from wellness swimming to assisted-horseback riding to taking hot-air balloon rides. She was involved with the Southern Tier Independence Center (STIC) from its very beginning and served on its board throughout the years. Her love of learning led her to serve on the Four County Library committee for many years. Everyone acquainted with Milrene expected to hear her latest joke or riddle. The family wants to express its sincere thanks to each of the caregivers who served Milrene, to the staff of Lourdes Hospital, especially these past two months and posthumously to Mary Ann Hobbs, her beloved caregiver for the past 27 years.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, September 6, 2013 at St. John and Andrew Church, 1263 Vestal Ave, Binghamton by the Reverend Monsignor Michael T. Meagher. Family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of services. Interment in Slovak Catholic Cemetery, Binghamton will follow the Mass. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Milrene’s name to: the MS Society of Upstate New York, 1650 South Avenue, Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14620 or to STIC, 135 E Frederick St, Binghamton, NY 13904. To forward condolences please visit www.demunnfh.com. Arrangements for the family are directed by the DeMunn Funeral Home.