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Barbara Smith Obituary
She was born in Middletown, the daughter of the late Carl and Jennie (Hale) Ripley. Prior to her retirement, Barbara worked in the property and casualty insurance industry as a VP at Middlesex Mutual Insurance Company and at State Farm.
Barbara is survived by her daughters, Jenell Smith Janes and her husband Rob; Andrea Menard and her husband Todd; grandsons Talon and Trenton Menard; Bob (Lauren) and Bill (Bela) Janes; great granddaughter Sadie Janes; sister Losetta Lacoss; brother-in-law Randy (Maryann) Smith; sisters-in-law Arlene Smith and Debbie Ripley; several nieces, nephews, her beloved cat Hunter, and wonderful friends. Barbara was predeceased by her loving husband of 59 years, Stephen "Smitty" Smith; brothers Carl and Sam Ripley; in-laws Percy and Eva Smith; brother-in-law Percy "Colonel" Smith (Lillian); sisters-in-law Anna Perham (Earl) and Bertha Hawes (Henry).
Barbara was a loving and giving person. She was always willing to assist those in need. A true Christian, Barbara was an active member in her community and church. She helped maintain the gardens of Higganum as a member of the Haddam Garden Club. She used her knitting talents to knit hats for newborn babies and cancer patients at Middlesex Hospital. She was an active member, and served as treasurer, of the VFW Auxiliary to Middletown Post 583. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 25th from 4 to 7 PM at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver Street, Middletown. A graveside service will be held Friday, November 28th, 10 AM at the State Veterans' Cemetery, Bow Lane, Middletown where she will be laid to rest alongside her loving husband. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to the charity of their choice. To share memories, or express condolences, please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Smith
Pat Jasinski
December 30, 2025
Andrea, Janell and family,
I had the pleasure of working with Barbara at State Farm Insurance for many years. She was a great co-worker and an even better friend. She was always so kind, helpful and quick to laugh. We have stayed in touch over the years and every time I spoke to her it warmed my heart. She was a wonderful person and I will miss her.
With my sincere condolences,
Pat Jasinski
Anita Kelly
November 24, 2025
So sorry. Barbara was a caring person . I graduated with her from Wilson High School and was part of the lunches that she planned so faithfully for so many years. She will be truly missed.
Anita Carta Kelly
Janet Milardo
November 24, 2025
Our sincere sympathy to Jenell & Andrea & their family on the loss of your mom. May your memories help ease your sorrows in the days ahead. Sincerely, Janet & John Milardo & family
Kenneth Houghtaling
November 22, 2025
Jenelle and Andrea, I am sorry to hear about your mother's death. May her memory be a blessing to you and the family
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Ursula Gardner
November 21, 2025
May the Lord give comfort to Barbara’s family. Barbara was a very special friend. She was so kind and caring. Never had a bad word about anyone. We had so many fandom memories of high school, getting married, raising our children and old age. Will see you up in Heaven with our husbands. God bless you all❤
Mardi Hanson-dAlessandro
November 21, 2025
So sad to hear of her passing! She was a beautiful and special friend of mine. Monday will not be the same, we would visit Haddam Meadows and observe the river and wildlife. Condolences to you all: she was a blessing. Peace, Mardi
Michael P &Kathy Sewell
November 20, 2025
Prayers and love go to Jenell and Andrea and their families. Barbara was a sweet friend. She kept all the WWHS high school ladies who lunch organized. I will miss her. R.I.P Barbara.
. .
November 20, 2025
Please take good care of Hunter
Godspeed.
Samantha Houska
November 20, 2025
To the Smith Family. May our friend
Barbara Smith Rest in Peace with her loving husband Smitty and our prayers and condolences are to her children and family With love the Houska Family
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