Courtney Dawn Smith

Courtney Dawn Smith, lovingly known to many as “Norny or CD,” passed away peacefully at home at the age of 49 on January 6, 2026. Born on June 24, 1976, in Georgia to a Navy family, Courtney spent her early years moving between Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia before settling in Ogunquit at Perkins Cove with her parents and sister to her father’s childhood home. She was a proud graduate of Wells High School, Class of 1994, and later earned an associate’s degree in Canine Science from Mt. Ida College.

Throughout her life in Ogunquit, Courtney was a smiling familiar face in the community and friend to many in Perkins Cove, warmly greeting shop owners during her daily walks with her beloved succession of dogs—Lady, Oreo, Maggie, and finally Evie. She found joy in simple pleasures such as solving puzzles, watching birds, sorting coins, writing poetry, and nurturing her impressive Smurf collection. Courtney was deeply devoted to her local church, Seacoast Community Church, where she served in many roles, especially working with children. She formed close bonds with the women in her Bible Study group, who some, like Debby Boyle, became a second mother after the passing of her own mother two years prior.

As a childhood cancer survivor, Courtney led a life marked by unique and profound challenges, both physical and cognitive, which shaped her compassionate spirit. She was known for her ability to offer simple, genuine love to everyone she met. Her thoughtfulness was evident in her willingness to help—whether mowing lawns, assisting neighbors with unpacking or painting, giving directions, holding a hand, playing with her three nieces, or sorting toys. Courtney also enjoyed tending to her modest strawberry garden, although the berries rarely made it inside. She was famous for her warm bear hugs and love of her nieces, traveling abroad on several occasions on missions trips to Venezuela and Dominican Republic and to help her sister and young family in Belgium and wherever else they would settle to live.

Courtney is survived by her father, Jay Smith; her sister, Jennifer Solomon and husband Wayne; and her three cherished nieces: Gracie, Eva, and Emma. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

A celebration of Courtney’s life will be held locally in Ogunquit in May at a time and place to be announced.

As a childhood cancer survivor, Courtney requested that donations be made to Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters (www.chkd.org) in lieu of flowers/gifts.

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