Patricia J. Smith of Newbury, Vermont passed away at Cottage Hospital, Woodsville NH on October 22, 2026 after a brief illness. 

Born in Bloomfield, New Jersey, Patricia raised her three children and became a Realtor for Bob Grimm Agency, later working at Bambergers as the Estee Lauder counter manager. She was chosen as one of the first Ambassadors for the Ocean County store, something she was very proud to receive. 

In 1983, she moved to Newbury, Vermont with her son Craig and together they restored and opened what would become “A Century Past”, bed and breakfast. She remained an active B&B host for about 16 years with many guests returning many times over the years, becoming lifelong friends. During this time, Patricia also became a justice of the peace, officiating marriages with her own special touch.

In 2003, Patricia moved to Chapel Street in Newbury. It would be the home where she lived until her passing. She became the Village Clerk for Newbury and later a main contributor to the Newbury Water Line Project. She took much pride in contributing to this project, seeing it from start to finish. Patricia’s family and home were her greatest pride and joy, and she was amazing taking care of both. She was a good friend and tireless worker, with a sassy vocabulary that might have been unexpected. She loved the fall foliage, the winter snowfall, freezing temperatures and would brag endlessly about them. 

She moved to Vermont a “flatlander” and over time became an official Vermonter – or would you have dared to say otherwise. Her family lovingly referred to her as the Mayor of Newbury. 

Patricia is survived by her daughter Debra (John) Zelechoski, daughter-in-law Karen (Craig) Steensen, grandchildren Daniel (Dana) Zelechoski, Shannon Zelechoski, Danielle (Tristan) Omand, Craig J. Steensen, Chelsea (Stephen O’Sullivan) Steensen, great grandchildren Debra, Dean, Norah, Saoirse and Eoghan, as well as her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. 

She is predeceased by her daughter Robin Steensen, her son Craig D. Steensen, her brothers Roger and David Johnson, and sisters-in-laws Jane and Eleanor Johnson. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to: Cerebral Palsy Foundation Donate.cerebralpalsy-foundation.org Horse Meadow Senior Center 91 Horse Meadow Rd North Haverhill, NH 03774 or a charity of your choice.

 A date for a Celebration of Life will be announced in the spring.