Barbara M. DeFazio-Smith

Barbara M. “Babs” DeFazio-Smith, age 73, of Utica, passed away on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of her family by her side. Born in Utica on February 5, 1937, Barbara was the daughter of the late Frank R. and Angeline D. (Domenicone) DeFazio. She was raised and educated locally, attending T.R. Proctor High School. She also furthered her studies at Long Beach California Community College, an accomplishment of which she was proud. On August 13, 1976 she married William M. “Bill” Smith with whom she enjoyed a loving relationship of 25 years prior to his passing on September 7, 2001. Barbara was predominantly a homemaker and spent many years in California until relocating to Utica. She was a quiet, unassuming woman who always had a smile on her face. She led a very active life, enjoying camping with her husband, mining for gold, taking trips to LasVegas, and auto racing. She was also an excellent cook and baker, especially remembered for her lemon pie, home made peanut brittle, and caramel corn. She was a communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Barbara is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ellen and Eugene “Gene” D’Amico; and her brother and sister-in-law, Philip J., Sr. and Rosemary DeFazio, all of New Hartford. Survivors also include her many nieces and nephews, including Eugene D’Amico, Jr., Christina D’Amico, Deborah M. DeFazio, Philip J., Jr. and Melanie DeFazio and their son, Derek; Ron DeFazio, Jr., Kimberly DeFazio, David DeFazio, MaryBeth Crouse, and Stephen DeFazio; several step-children and step-grandchildren; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws with whom she shared special times and memorable moments. She also leaves her friends in California, and her many friends at Brook Apartments, especially acknowledging Ron, Tina, and Josie. She was predeceased by her infant brother, Frank DeFazio, Jr.; her brother, Ronald F. DeFazio, Sr.; and a step-daughter. The family expresses heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Charles Eldredge, Dr.Ira Tisch, and Nurse Practitioner, Cheryl for their care; and the nurses and staff of the 3rd floor West at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their compassion and concern. Special gratitude is offered to Msgr. Francis Willenburg for his spiritual guidance and friendship. Barbara’s family will honor and celebrate her life in a private gathering. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday morning at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Barbara M. DeFazio-Smith

February 5, 1937 - November 10, 2010