Patricia Rose Smith

Patricia Rose Smith, 80, of Wharton, NJ, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at St. Clare's Hospital/Denville.

Patricia (Patti) born on October 6, 1944 to the late Joseph Smith and Anna (née Shemonsky,).  She was a lifelong resident of Wharton, NJ where she was raised on her family’s beautiful farm. Their family home was always filled with laughter, love, and great food.

Patti cherished the joyful chaos of a packed house—where aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends were always welcome, and no one ever left hungry. That warm, generous spirit followed her throughout her life.

Her faith was central to who she was—expressed not only through prayer but in the way she lived her life with a gentle heart, easy laughter, and unwavering devotion to her loved ones. She had a unique gift of making others feel seen, valued and loved and her kindness and generosity touched everyone she met. For her 80th birthday she ordered special cupcakes for the entire staff at The Rehab center where she was staying plus hand picked apples from the orchard. It was always those special things that she did that set her apart. Always ready to share whatever she had and worrying about other peoples needs before her own.

She was especially close to her godmother, Aunt Mary Berezney, who predeceased her in 1990. They enjoyed spending time with each other and became very good friends

But above all she cherished her role as primary caregiver to her beloved Mother Anna and tended to her with devotion until her passing at the age of 100.

She is survived by her loving siblings:

Marion Albanese of Dover

Anne Bakke of Waymart, PA;

Michael Smith of Dover

John Smith of Hartville, TN

Frank Smith and his wife Shirley of Wharton.

As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was predeceased by cherished siblings:

Joseph Smith of Sparta, NJ;

Helen Smith of Chico, CA, and Joan Brassel of Virginia.

A memorial visitation will be held 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Friday, May 23, 2025 at the Bermingham Funeral Home, 216 S. Main St., Wharton proceeding directly after to a Memorial Mass at St. Mary’s Church, Wharton at 11:30 AM followed by inurnment at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Mine Hill.

The family would also like to express our appreciation to her primary caregiver, Patricia Bustamante for all the love and care she has shown to her.  

"Patricia Rose  laughed easily and loved deeply—leaving behind a legacy of compassion, devotion, and joyful memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her."

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her name to your favorite charity.

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