Let the memory of Carol Sawall Smith be a blessing

Last Friday, Carol Sawall Smith passed away. She was a STOP mental-health leader and served as a STOP board member in our early years.

Chicago Mental Health Advocates offered this about Carol:

She was a long-time member of the Community Mental Health Board of Chicago and its treasurer. She was the founder of the Mental Health Movement. She was a member of the Woodlawn Mental Health Center Board and the Greater Grand Board. She was a mental health advocate and stood up to Mayor Daley at a public hearing.

The August 26, 2009 Sun-Times article “Mayor culpa: Daley catches an earful at public hearing” quoted Carol:

“You promised us in April that these centers would stay open. Now, we're back in the same situation, yet your department has not been billing for Medicare for at least two years,” said Carol Smith, treasurer of the Citywide Mental Health Board.

“They messed up the computer system and they messed up the billing. Check it out, Mayor Daley. What happened to the money? I want an answer right now.”

She was an artist and musician. She created the Board's logo. She organized and hosted regular Woodlawn art fairs ("Art In Action").

Her messages were upbeat and colorful.

She shared her love.

“Love me and save the world. Peace, Carol Sawall”

Services will be held this Saturday, November 18, at Gatlings Chapel at 10135 S. Halsted. Visitation will be from 12:30 to 1 pm and the service will be from 1 to 2 pm.