Hospice gets $1 million gift

NAPLES — Hospice provider Avow recently renamed its administration building in memory of Elizabeth and Leonard Smith after the organization received a $1 million gift from their estate.

“Elizabeth Smith was touched and inspired by the loving and compassionate hospice care her husband Leonard, and other members of her family, received through Avow,” says the Smith's estate attorney, Bradley Rigor of Quarles & Brady, in a statement. “She was particularly impressed with Avow's nursing and spiritual care.”

Elizabeth Smith was the sole heir to L. C. Smith Pet Supplies in Delmar, N.Y., which she and Leonard Smith founded over 50 years ago. Avow provided hospice care for Leonard Smith in 2003 and Elizabeth Smith's mother-in-law and brother in subsequent years. Avow also cared for Elizabeth Smith before she died in 2010.

The administration building named for the Smiths is one of three buildings on Avow's campus at 1095 Whippoorwill Lane in Naples. It was built in 1993.

“The intent behind Elizabeth's generous gift is very inspiring,” says Jeffrey McManus, Avow vice president of advancement, in a statement. “Avow is fortunate, thankful and very proud to have the E & L Smith name grace our building.”