Smith, Philomena R.

LOUDONVILLE – Philomena (Veneroso) Smith, 72, died Saturday, January 21, 2012 in the Hospice Inn at St. Peter's Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. She was the daughter of the late Neil and Rose (Isabel) Veneroso. She was born in Amsterdam, NY and grew up in North Plainfield, NJ. Philly was the beloved wife of over 48 years of John P. Smith; beloved mother of Joseph A. (Elena)Smith of Loudonville, Mimi (Thomas)Terry of Loudonville, Timothy N. (Michelle) Smith of Needham,MA., Edward J.(Carolyn) Smith of Barrington,RI. and Margaret R.(Mark) Cassier of Greenfield; sister of Mary Ann (Philip)Serafino of Owego. Phil was the beloved "GranGran" of 13 grandchildren. She is also the sister-in-law of Sister Rose Regina Smith, CSJ, Ursula Smith McKegney and Barbara Brandow Smith; also, she is survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

After graduating from The College of Saint Rose in 1961, Phil taught school for several years which led to her establishing her own business, Innovative Training Associates. Phil continued this endeavor while raising her family and earning a master's degree also at Saint Rose.

While living in Albany, Phil was very active in the Holy Cross Church community (All Saints) serving as the first woman trustee, and chair of the building committee. She was a member of the Board of St. Anne's Institute. Additionally, she was a past president of The College of Saint Rose Alumni Association and a member of the College's Board of Trustees.

Phil’s zest for life was contagious manifested by her devotion to her family and her many life-long friends, a meal at her home was a veritable feast—there were no strangers there! In addition to her time spent with family and friends, Phil could be found on the golf course, the bridge table or reading a favorite book.

The family would like to express deepest gratitude to Dr. Mary Rappazzo, Dr. John Ferraro and to the Community Hospice of Albany County especially at the Inn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at the Church of St. Pius X, 23 Crumitie Road, Loudonville. Relatives and friends are invited and may also call at the Church on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Philomena may be made to the Community Hospice of Albany County, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205.

Philly’s last joke, "Lexus and Lady Callaways for sale":).