Forever, an inspiration to us all...
In memory of Cassandra Allen Smith:
[From RHA Faces - Volume 2]

The second edition of RHA ”FACES“ is dedicated in loving memory to Cassandra Smith who departed us on November 17, 2004. Her presence is deeply missed, but her love and determination are still reflected in the faces of all the people whose lives she touched.

Cass grew up in Wade, North Carolina, where she attended school and graduated from Cape Fear High School in 1977.She went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Cass began her career with RHA eighteen years ago as a direct support staff at the Benson unit. Her skill, sense of caring, and ability to connect with people were soon recognized. She was quickly promoted and served as a Habilitation Specialist, a Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (QMRP), and as Administrator at Benson. Cass was then selected to develop supervised living homes in eastern North Carolina, providing new opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible in their communities. In 1998,Cass was promoted to Vice-President, and over the next six-and- a-half years she provided leadership and oversight to services throughout eastern North Carolina. At one time or another, she was responsible for services in the Benson, Maxton, Fayetteville, Creedmoor and Wilmington, but her skill and influence extended far beyond these areas.

Cass’ knowledge and ideas truly helped to define RHA. She never refused to take on tough projects, and she always made sure that the final product supported RHA’s mission to provide opportunities for personal outcomes. She had an unfailing moral compass, and people looked to her when struggling with difficult issues. All of these attributes were critical to Cass’ most important role- as an advocate for people with developmental disabilities.

Cass balanced her work commitments with the love for her family in a remarkable way. Cass was a devoted wife and mother, deeply loved by her husband, Heywood, daughter Olivia, family and friends. Cass will be forever missed by those fortunate enough to have been touched by her life, but her gifts to all of us live on as an inspiration to always do what is right. That is what Cass was about.

Many people have inquired about a memorial fund in honor of Cass. Anyone who knew Cass also knew how much she cherished her family. In tribute, a scholastic fund for Cass’ daughter, Olivia, has been established. Contributions can be made by check payable to, “Olivia N. Smith Custodial Account,” and delivered by visiting any Wachovia branch (check should be marked for interoffice distribution to: Stuart Strickland, Southern Pines NC 3212) or mailed to: 

Wachovia Bank
Attn: Stuart Strickland
PO Box 510
Southern Pines, NC 28388