Helene M (Schroeder) Smith

Helene Margaret Smith passed away unexpectedly at her home in Pearl River, NY at the age of 82. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald Eugene Smith, in 2004. Surviving are a sister, Pamela Rhodes and brother-in-law Gale Rhodes, of Portland, ME; nephew Nicholas Rhodes, his wife Sara, and son Samuel of Kenmore, WA; niece Anne Rhodes, her husband Carl Testa, and son Florian of New Haven, CT; cousin Mary Lou Dillon and her husband Robert Dillon of Nyack, NY; and cousin Peggy Schneider and her husband Walter Schneider of Brevard, NC.

Helene was the daughter of Edward Schroeder and Helene Gohring. She was born in Manhattan, lived in Bergen County, NJ for 4 years, and was thereafter a resident of Rockland County, NY. She attended Nyack High School and Long Island University in Farmingdale before being employed for 45 years at Lederle Laboratories as an NMR technician.

Never without animals, Helene was known for taking in countless stray cats and dogs, and caring for a variety of urban wildlife, despite the fact that they took advantage of her always beautiful gardens.  Her artistic talents, sometimes with a zany tint, were evident in the home she decorated and original gifts she bestowed on her family. Her nephew and niece have fond memories of her generosity and sense of humor.

Special thanks to the Ramapo Police, Wyman-Fisher Funeral Home, and Hudson Valley Humane Society. Please consider a contribution to the Humane Society in honor of Helene.

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