Susan Ann Smolin

Susan Ann Smolin, formerly of Needham, Massachusetts and most recently of The Woodlands, Texas, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at the age of 82.

Susan was born in Brooklyn, New York, the beloved daughter of the late Alvin and Marjorie Smolin. She spent her early years in New York, New Jersey, and Maine, before eventually settling in Needham, Massachusetts. Where she married Martin Gombosi and built a life centered around family, learning, and community.

A lifelong student at heart, Susan valued education and intellectual curiosity. She earned a BA from Columbia University after previously pursuing studies at St. John's College. Her love of learning remained a defining part of her life even in later years as she attended Boston University and earned an MBA.

Susan's greatest joy and most meaningful role was that of a mother. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her wonderful son, David, and took immense pride in his life and accomplishments.

Susan was known for her generous and thoughtful spirit. She was always ready to offer help, encouragement, or support to those around her. She was friendly and outgoing, loved meeting new people, and striking up conversations wherever she went. She was an enthusiastic participant in Toastmasters International, where she enjoyed developing her speaking skills and connecting with others. She also volunteered her time for the local Needham Scouting troop.

She had many interests that enriched her life. She was an avid reader, enjoyed studying languages, listening to classical and international music, traveling, caring for animals and staying active through regular exercise. Susan also believed strongly in giving back and supported several charitable causes that were important to her.

Susan was a longtime member of Temple Aliyah in Needham and participated in the synagogue's Sisterhood, where she formed lasting friendships and remained closely connected to her Jewish faith and community.

In recent years, Susan lived in The Woodlands, Texas, near her family. Susan is survived by her son David Gombosi and his wife, Heather, and her two sisters Stephanie and Martine.

Susan will be remembered for her curiosity, intelligence, generosity, warmth and kindness which she shared with others.

Funeral services will be held at noon Tuesday, March 17 th at Schlossberg Family's Chapel on the Hill, 824 Washington Street, Canton, Massachusetts. Interment will follow at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 42 Concord Road in Wayland, Massachusetts.

Shiva will be observed at the family home in Needham on Tuesday immediately following the burial through 5PM as well as 7-9PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Susan's memory may be made to one of the following organizations:

The American Jewish Committee (https://www.ajc.org)

The Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston (https://ma.cjp.org)

St. Johns College (https://www.sjc.edu)

Susan Ann Smolin Funeral Service

Zoom link (see below)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5288320605?pwd=dVFjQlUzWmVDYmFhVGwwZkNVSXBLQT09&omn=87055470986

will be activated at 11:45AM

(15 minutes prior to the start of the service)

As a courtesy to the Smolin family, it is imperative that upon entry into Zoom, kindly ensure that your microphone is properly muted, so as not to affect the audio or video stream.