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Nancy Smythe Obituary
AGE: 89 • Plainfield
Nancy O'Keeffe Smythe, 89, died yesterday February 12, 2012. Born to John O'Keeffe and Mary Katherine Ellis O'Keeffe, she was a lifelong resident of Plainfield. Nancy was a dedicated member of her community; a parishioner at St. Bernard's Church, a member of the Laurel League, and a board member and docent at the Drake House in Plainfield. Nancy was proud of her Irish heritage. She loved food and gardening. An avid reader, she also enjoyed movies and travel. Fiercely devoted to her children, she extended her love and generosity to all who knew her - and she had the ability to light up a room with her presence. Optimistic by nature, she was a true romantic.
Nancy was predeceased by her husband, Donald H. Smythe, and her brother, Jamie O'Keeffe. She is survived by her children Kathleen Smythe, Louise Smythe, Donald (and Barbara) Smythe, Mary Ann Smythe, Patricia (and Larry) Harding, and Elaine Smythe, her sisters Marie Mottley, Jean Reilley, Joan (and Lou) Harding, Jane Jaeger, and Bette (and Jack) Petersen, eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
Services will begin at 9:00 am on Thursday, February 16, 2012 at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd. Watchung, NJ followed by a 10:00 am Mass of the Resurrection at St Bernard of Clairvaux and St. Stanislaus Kostka R.C. Church in Plainfield. The interment will be at Hillside Cemetery in Scotch Plains. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at the funeral home. Please visit www.higginsfuneralhome.com to send condolences.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nancy Smythe
Dave Fairman
April 25, 2025
Rest in Peace Nancy
Betsi Bradrick
February 7, 2025
I still miss her. She was gentle and kind to me always.
To all my cousins, just know, Aunt Nancy is in Heaven with my mom having a great time together! Love Betsi
Betsi Bradrick
February 7, 2024
Miss her still. When I came with my mom to visit her busy house, there was always a smile and a hug. I always wanted sisters but got 2 brothers instead. At the Smythe household Aunt Nancy made me feel like I did, all 5 of the girls and that I fit in too!
Betsi Bradrick
February 22, 2023
Aunt Nancy loved brushing all her daughters' hair. Once when Mom and I went to the Smythe house early in the day, Aunt Nancy was just finishing up her girls' hair. I was little and was watching very closely at what she was doing. She smiled at me and asked me if I wanted my hair brushed too. I grinned, sat down and got my hair brushed too. I'm glad that Mom is up there with you now, Aunt Nancy. Betsi
Betsi Bradrick
February 7, 2021
She was a wonderful aunt to me and my mother loved her like a sister. She was an amazing mother who raised
five beautiful girls and one amazing son. I spent many happy hours in her house and still share memories of her with my cousins.
Elizabeth Bradrick
February 7, 2020
On this, the anniversary of my Aunt Nancy's death, I'd like to say that she was very kind to a shy little girl and always knew the right things to say to me. I still miss her.
Betsi Bradrick
February 13, 2012
I will miss my Aunt Nancy who has always been a bright spot in my life! She was a rare lady of the highest caliber whose kindness helped a very shy little girl always feel comfortable and special in her presence despite all the other kids around.
Lois Mattson
February 13, 2012
Dear Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Nancy's passing, she was a good friend of my mother Jean Mattson. Unfortunately I will be out of town the day of the funeral but you will be in my prayers.
Vicki Rothberg McIsaac
February 13, 2012
Kathleen,
So sorry to read of the loss of your Mom. She had a full life and was such a wonderful Mom to all of you. She will be missed greatly. I hope all your wonderful memories will help you at this sad time.
February 13, 2012
To the Children of Nancy Smythe,
Though I only met your mother once, I share in your sorrow at her passing. I pray that a merciful God has taken her into his glorious presence and that you find strength in each other and in your faith during htis difficult time.
God Bless,
Deacon Don Hessemer
St. Bartholomew the Apostle Church
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