Patricia M. Smith passed on April 17, 2018, but she leaves a legacy at the Electronic Security Association. From Bethesda, Maryland, Smith attended the University of Alabama and the University of Maryland, where she obtained her business degree. An industry and community leader, Pat was the first woman named the "Man of the Year' by ESA (at that time called the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association). Patricia M. Smith passed on April 17, 2018, but she leaves a legacy at the Electronic Security Association.
From Bethesda, Maryland, Smith attended the University of Alabama and the University of Maryland, where she obtained her business degree.
Her first job was with the Democratic National Committee, working on the convention that nominated Harry Truman for President in 1948. In 1949, Pat married Tom, beginning a happy, productive and loving marriage of 67 years. They started a family and a successful business, Security, Inc.
An industry and community leader, Pat was the first woman named the "Man of the Year' by ESA (at that time called the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association).
“Patricia Smith was clearly a driven and intelligent woman who demonstrated dedication to the association and the industry as a whole," says ESA President, Angela White. "Let her legacy serve as an inspiration — not only for myself, but for all passionate women in our industry."
Smith served as 28th president of the association from 1988-1990, under the theme: “Back to the Basics.” She believed the basic structure of the association was in serving our membership and strengthening its programs in order to build the industry at large.
“Pat Smith is one of the most dedicated presidents the NBFAA ever had,” says Patrick Egan former ESA president. “She worked tirelessly on behalf of the industry and was passionate and dedicated to growing membership.”
She was very involved in the development of the first level one class, which became the beginning of the National Training School Program.
“We must come together to protect our future — as individuals, companies, as an association and as an industry to make the NBFAA the authoritative voice of the alarm industry,” she once wrote in an association publication.
During her presidency, ESA's Chartered Chapter Program was established — the Colorado Burglar and Fire Alarm Association being the first official Chartered Chapter.
“Pat Smith was a positive and strong leader,” says Stan Martin who served as treasurer during Pat’s term as president. “She always had a smile and encouraging word, yet was ‘all-business’ when handling association affairs. Many people seemed to underestimate her ability to persuade and persevere during challenging times. I will miss her!”
In her spare time, Pat enjoyed entertaining, playing bridge, serving at her church, and spending time with her many friends and ever-expanding family. She is survived by her five children, 12 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
She will certainly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with her children, friends and family.
