Wendy D. Polak

Wendy (Schwarzer) Polak, 72, of Smithfield, Rhode Island, passed away unexpectedly in the loving arms of her family in the early hours of August 22, 2025, at Roger Williams Medical Center.

Wendy was born on March 30, 1953, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to the late Harry Schwarzer and Audrey (Miller) Schwarzer. She is survived by her spouse, Theodore “Ted” Polak, Sr., her children, Heather (Jason) Weesner, Theodore (Tanya) Polak, Jr., and James (Mary Ellen) Polak, her six grandchildren, Abby and Madelyn Weesner, Declan and Thea Polak, and Jack and Audrey Polak. Wendy is also survived by her brother, David Schwarzer, her sister Lisa (Schwarzer) Krell, and many cherished nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her brother, Jerry Schwarzer.

Wendy grew up in Cheshire, Massachusetts, and graduated with the first class of Hoosac Valley High School before earning her education degree from Rhode Island College. Even as a young woman, Wendy’s adventurous and caring spirit shone through, whether it was traveling abroad with 4-H, singing in her church choir, or sharing family traditions like camping, canoeing, and collecting “Cape May Diamonds.”

She was remembered in high school for being the quintessential “Cheshire Girl” with her extraordinarily long hair, which she could sit on, and for her uncanny luck in winning contests that ranged from appliances to countless other prizes. She also cherished board games, troll dolls, and had a lifelong love of playful competition.

Wendy dedicated her career to education and disability services, with opportunities at Blackstone Valley ARC, the Northern RI Collaborative, and Central Falls High School. After retiring, she continued part-time at the Sherlock Center on Disabilities at RIC and Living In Fulfilling Environments (LIFE) Inc. In every role, she poured her heart into supporting others with patience, creativity, and fierce advocacy—qualities that would also define how she loved and fought for her family.

Wendy met her beloved husband, Ted, while he was at the Fogarty Center and she was completing a work-study program through Rhode Island College. Their connection was instant, and over the next 44 years, they built a life and marriage together filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion as they raised three beautiful children they adored. Wendy and Ted loved traveling, gathering with friends, and most of all, cherishing the quiet moments at home where love, laughter, and family memories were always at the center.

Her grandchildren were the light of her life and the center of her universe. Wendy had a gift for turning everyday moments into memories: whether planning holiday traditions with themed shirts and books, celebrating half-birthdays, watching volleyball games and performances virtually from miles away, setting up virtual Yahtzee competitions, or simply reminding each child how deeply they were loved. She cherished every milestone, every story, and every hug.

Wendy was also a tireless advocate for her husband, children, and grandchildren. She championed their voices with the same strength and dedication she brought to her career, ensuring they always received the support they deserved.

Her legacy is one of boundless love, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion. She will be remembered not only as a wife, mother, and grandmother, but also as a teacher, advocate, and dear friend who touched countless lives with her compassion, thoughtfulness, and humor.

Funeral services will be held at Robbins Funeral Home in North Providence, RI, on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Visitation will be from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM with a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association Rhode Island Chapter at https://www.apdaparkinson.org/community/rhode-island or the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism at https://flutiefoundation.org/.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all who have offered love and support during this difficult time, with special gratitude to Mary Sue Tavares for her exceptional care and kindness.