 | Raynell Smith was a founding force behind the Deltaville Maritime Museum, helping shape its mission of education, preservation and community. Her extensive maritime background includes sailing as a child in New Jersey with her father, before going on to spend twelve years living on a boat with her husband while they sailed up and down the East Coast. After settling in Deltaville, she and her family continued to spend much time on the water, and she also opened a consignment shop that sold used nautical equipment and locally made gifts. While running their businesses and raising a family, Raynell and her husband were also heavily involved in the 2002 establishment of the Deltaville Maritime Museum, even building many of the early exhibits themselves. Over the years, Raynell served on the Museum Board as the first vice president, later as president, and is currently the development director. According to Executive Director Kristin DeGraw, "Raynell's passion and leadership turned a dream into a lasting institution, with her influence still felt in every corner of the museum. Through her dedication to maritime history, she created a space where visitors find not just exhibits, but connection and belonging." If you think getting involved in a cause like Raynell has sounds fun, check out the Volunteer River Counties hub for volunteer opportunities with the Deltaville Maritime Museum and over seventy other great local organizations! As Raynell said in her January Volunteer Spotlight interview with Chris Wright on Bay FM, "Anybody, with any amount of time, can locate something they like to do and volunteer." |
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Feb 9, 2026
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