Andrea Smith

Andrea (Russo) Smith, 78, of Whiting, New Jersey, sadly passed away on February 12, 2026.

A lifelong New Jersey resident, Andrea was born on March 14, 1947, in Jersey City. She spent her early years living in Union City before her family settled in Iselin, where she would spend most of her youth. Andrea graduated from John F. Kennedy Memorial High School in 1965.

After graduation, Andrea began her career as a hairstylist, a profession perfectly suited to her sweet personality and natural ability to make others feel beautiful inside and out. Following her marriage to her husband, Richard, the couple relocated to Edison, New Jersey, where they built their life together and raised their daughter, Suzanne.

While devoting her life to raising her daughter, Andrea also became an "Auntie" to many children she lovingly cared for each day. Her nurturing heart and ever-present smile left a lasting impression on them all. For many years, her friendly smile could be found at the Woodbridge Auction, where she proudly worked as co-manager alongside her father, Andrew Russo. Later, before retiring, she spent her days in customer service at HomeGoods in Woodbridge, where she continued to brighten the days of customers and coworkers alike.

In 2021, Andrea and Ritchie made their final move to Whiting, where they enjoyed their retirement years together.

Deeply connected to her Italian heritage, Andrea expressed her love through cooking. Her stuffed artichokes and meatballs were family favorites and staples at gatherings. Nothing brought her more joy than feeding the people she loved.

Andrea was a devoted and proud "Nanny" to her two grandsons, Kyle and Cole Yock. She cherished every moment spent with them and treasured being an important and active part of their lives.

Andrea was predeceased by her parents, Andrew and Elizabeth Russo.

She is survived by her husband, Richard; her adored daughter, Suzanne Yock; her cherished grandsons, Kyle and Cole Yock; her treasured brother, Joseph Russo and his wife, Emily; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

She will be terribly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know her. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family will live on in the hearts of all she touched.

The Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 4 to 8pm at Costello-Runyon Funeral Home, 568 Middlesex Ave., Metuchen.

The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 11am at the funeral home followed by the interment in St. John the Baptiste Orthodox Church, Perth Amboy.