Dear Soror,

It is with deep sadness to announce the passing of Soror Muriel "Puff" Lyle Smith. Soror Lyle Smith, an honorary member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a granddaughter of founder Ethel Hedgemon** Lyle, died September 23, 2015, at her home in Neptune, N.J.

Born in Philadelphia to George Lyle Jr. and Muriel Sweeney Lyle, Puff, as she preferred to be called, graduated from West Philadelphia High School in 1958. After graduation, she relocated to Washington, D.C., where she started her family. In the late 1960s, she met her soulmate, Charles "Chazz" Smith. In 1970, the couple married and settled into their home in Neptune, where they raised their daughters, Stayce, Romy, and Kecia.

Puff was the creator, host, and producer of her own cable TV show, "Unique Woman," for 20 years. Her commitment to informing, empowering and inspiring her viewers and her community also led her to help launch "Neptune (Township) Day" in 1985 and spearhead Circle of L.O.V.E. (Let's Overcome Violence Everywhere), a support group for women victims of domestic violence.

Through the years, Soror Lyle Smith received a number of awards and accolades for her service to the community. However, no recognition spoke to her heart and family history of service more than when she and her sister, Andrea, were named honorary members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, during the 1994 Boule in Indianapolis.

The family is requesting donations in lieu of flowers. Donations may be made in Soror Lyle Smith’s memory to the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV). A "Celebration of Life" will be held at her home on Sunday, October 18, 2015, from noon to 8 p.m. Please continue to keep Soror Lyle Smith’s family in your thoughts and prayers.

Sisterly yours,

Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson
Supreme Basileus

** Family Spelling

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