Obituary of Gertrude Smith

Gertrude Smith (née Garrett), a former longtime Florham Park resident, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025, after a brief illness. She was 91.

She leaves behind two sons, Daniel Smith (Jacqueline) and Mark Smith (Pam); four daughters, Diana Bossard (Eric), Theresa Smith, Lynn Conway, and Patricia Lowe; 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vincent C. Smith; her sisters Lillian and Jean; and her son-in-law, Wilbur “Butch” Conway.

Born in Orange on June 2, 1933, to the late John and Lillian Garrett, Gertrude was raised in East Orange with her two sisters. She met her future husband, Vincent’ C. Smith, on a blind date set up by mutual friends. The inseparable couple married on December 29, 1951, and raised their six children in East Orange before settling in Florham Park in the early 70s.

The true matriarch, Gertrude’s family meant everything to her. She adored being a wife and mother and was extremely proud and supportive of her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary and always made sure to call or send a card. Her family always knew when they received a letter from her; her tell-tale beautiful handwriting was always prominent. Her love and devotion were truly the glue that held the family together.

Gertrude was fiercely independent and lived as such in Denville in a cottage by the lake for the past 10 years. She enjoyed playing bingo and catching the occasional concert or show.

Gertrude’s thoughtfulness, love, and devotion to her family will be greatly missed, but they take great comfort in knowing she is at peace.

A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated for Gertrude at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at St. Vincent Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison. Those who wish may attend the mass virtually by visiting www.svmnj.org.

Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover.