Ledyard - Ruth "Phyllis" Smith, 81, of Gales Ferry, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013, surrounded by the people and things she loved.She had been active in the community for many years as a volunteer serving on the Eastern Connecticut Area Agency on Aging and the Norwich Senior Center, where she helped seniors understand their Medicare benefits, on the Norwich AARP Board of Directors as assistant treasurer, and as a member of the Permanent Commission for Senior Citizens in Ledyard.Phyllis was born Nov. 13, 1931, in Acton Mass., the daughter of Vernon and Dorothy Smith.She had been married to James French, USN, from Concord, Mass., for 44 years.She is survived by her son, Steven French of Norwich, daughter, Debra Hanley of Fairfax, Va., daughter, Sherrie Biscuti of Noank, son, Dennis French of Seneca, S.C., daughter, Denise French-Fater of Savannah, Ga.; six grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23, at the United Methodist Church of Gales Ferry, 10 Chapman Lane.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Center for Hospice Care of Southeast Connecticut, 227 Dunham St., Norwich, CT 06360. We are so grateful to this wonderful organization for making it possible for mom to live comfortably and peacefully at home these past few weeks.Please visit www.byles.com for directions, to sign her guest book or to share a memory.