Profile Image
Barbara V. ( Coutermarsh) Smolenski
November 24, 2022

Obituary



Charlton’ Barbara V. (Coutermarsh) Smolenski April 22, 1932-November 24, 2022
Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt.
You demonstrated your love in so many ways…..no one could ever take your place.

Barbara V. (Coutermarsh) Smolenski of Charlton, MA. passed away peacefully with her daughter Heather holding her hand before Jesus’ hand on Thanksgiving,
November 24th, 2022.

She is survived by her daughters Heather McElroy and Holly Smolenski as well as grandchildren Maggie, Michael and Matthew McElroy, a cousin Shirley Coutermarsh of Vermont a niece, Dorothy Coutermarsh of Florida and nephews Edward and Christopher Coutermarsh of New Jersey.
Barbara was born in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter of Leon Coutermarsh of Springfield, Vt. And Dorothy (Gaboury) Coutermarsh of Webster, MA.

She was predeceased by her husband Steven Smolenski in 2002, a son Stephen Smolenski in 2021, a sister Marjorie Tucci in 2018,a brother George Coutermarsh in 2005, and Godson Greg Tucci in 2013,

Barbara was an avid antique dealer, being one of the original dealers to establish Sturbridge Antiques. For a time, she owned her own luncheonette, as well as an antique shop. Being a great cook, she baked fresh baguettes and croissants for Yankee Spirits, and bar tended at formerly owned Heritage Country Club in Charlton,
Barbara collected sterling silver and Nantucket baskets. She enjoyed traveling with her friends to remote areas of NH and VT in search of antiques. She would often be spotted at flea markets and yard sales with her son Stephen. She also collected miniatures and going to shows. For a time she was a member of the Charlton Garden Club.
She was a member of St. Joseph Church in Charlton.
Her son, Stephen who predeceased her was born with Downs Syndrome and was the light of her world.
She loved spending time with her grandchildren, spoiling them, and helping to entertain at her daughter Heather’s home. Often cooking items at home and bringing them over. She always had a “themed” tablecloth for every occasion.
Her favorite saying was, “Don’t worry about it.” She demonstrated her love for her family and friends in so many ways. She will be missed dearly.
The family would like to Thank the many dedicated staff from the Overlook in Charlton for their compassionate care.
Donations may be made to the Center of Hope in Southbridge, MA., or The Alzheimers Association.

Calling Hour will be Monday, December 5, 2022 from 10 AM-11AM (At the Church) with a Funeral Mass at 11 AM in St. Joseph Church, 10 H Putnam Rd. Ext., followed by burial in West Ridge Cemetery.
The ROBERT J. MILLER-CHARLTON FUNERAL HOME, 175 Old WORCESTER RD. is assisting the family with arrangements,

Content is coming soon...
Robert J. Miller Funeral Home - Charlton
175 Old Worcester Road
Charlton, MA 01507
508-987-2626