Grace Arlene (Roberts) Smart

Grace, daughter of Charles and Arlene (Dyer) Roberts was born May 20, 1935 in Brattleboro, VT. She attended school at Kurn Hattin School for Children and married Walter R Smart June 14, 1952 in Brattleboro, VT. They welcomed their first child, a son, Marvin. Shortly after, their daughter Debbie. Later another son, Michael, followed by youngest son Scott in 1969. Grace also lovingly raised her first grandchild Douglas.

Grace was a caregiver at heart. A nurturing person who took pride in her work as an LNA for most of the years of her life. She worked at Summer St Nursing Home where she met her dear friend Nikki Waters. She also worked at 180 Court Street as an LNA in the mid to late 80’s.

In the 90’s Grace began employment at the Keene State College housekeeping department where she developed a special relationship with the now former KSC President Stan and his wife Mary Lou. Their friendship continued long after her employment ended, they kept up with phone calls and letters throughout the remainder of Grace’s life.

Grace adored her mother, Arlene; they shared a special bond as Grace was her devoted caregiver to and referred to Arlene as her best friend. They lived together for years until Arlene required nursing care in her later years. At Westwood Nursing Home Grace’s friend Nikki, an LNA, helped care for Arlene. Grace and Nikki’s close relationship endured well over 40 years, despite Nikki moving away following her retirement. Their friendship never wavered through distance. Nikki was a thoughtful, caring, attentive friend; Grace always spoke very fondly of her. Following Arlene’s care, Grace also lovingly cared for her younger brother Henry until his passing in 2014.

Grace was a social butterfly, she had many, many friends. On birthdays she’d often receive upwards of 50+ birthday cards. Living in Central Square Terrace for several years, she nurtured a myriad of friendships with other building residents, particularly with her friend Linda.

Grace was especially partial to Joanne Gilford, who was more like a daughter than a friend. Joanne and Grace shared over 40 years of friendship. Along with her friendship, Joanne also provided personal care for Grace, whether she needed groceries, a ride to the store or someone to sit with her through medical appointments. Joanne was Grace’s steadfast devoted confidant even serving as Grace’s medical proxy as of late.

Grace was a spirited woman who kept her brain sharp with puzzles and word searches. Grace had a great sense of humor and was known for her vivacious personality, wit and her kindhearted ways. She was a lover of sweet pickles, donuts, and scallops. Grace almost always had a pack of Wrigley’s Double Mint Gum in her purse. She always enjoyed eating out with family, socializing, and reminiscing. Grace treasured her time spent in Tennessee on vacation with her son Michael and his family. Making memories with Mike, Robin (former daughter in law), and their children. She relished in laughter whenever she spent time with her former sister-in- law Gerry McCullock.

With a keen memory, Grace enjoyed sharing stories with her family. She loved family gatherings and cookouts at Marvin’s. She believed strong family relationships were vital. She spoke to and wrote to her numerous grandchildren regularly.

She greatly enjoyed her visits from her grandson Doug and his wife Jennifer (Jen) who traveled to see her frequently. Both Doug and Jen were very dear to Grace and served as two she could always count on in times of need.

She enjoyed time spent with her great grandson Declan who shared in her love of cats, puzzles, McDonald’s and of course Big Macs. She was so proud of all her grandchildren and always lit up when speaking about them.

Grace had a love for animals both furry and feathered. She had many birds, cats, & dogs throughout her life. She adored Caesar, a dog who first belonged to her son Mike, Precious her beloved cat, and Bones, another cat whom her brother Henry left behind meant the world to her.

Grace is survived by her sister Charlotte Jones of Springfield, MA. She is also survived by her children Marvin Smart of Winchester, NH, daughter Deborah Morton of Fort Mill, SC, and her son Michael Smart of Vonore, TN. She leaves behind several grandchildren, Doug Hartnett Jr. of MA, Tyson Hartnett of SC, Kristen (Smart) Bagster of Winchester, NH, Michael Smart of Keene, NH, Kyle Bryand of Kingston, NH, Cody Smart of CO, Dillan Robinson of NJ, Caleb Smart of Vonore, TN and Kelsey Smart of Vonore, TN, great grandchildren Douglas Hartnett, Caleb Hartnett, Saylor Smart, Declan Bagster, Mia Hartnett, William Smart, Jolene Smart and several other great grandchildren, a niece, and countless friends.

Grace is predeceased by her brothers George Roberts & Henry Roberts. She is also predeceased by her son Scott Smart of Swanzey, NH and grandson Chad Smart of Winchester, NH.

Family will hold a Graveside service for Grace on October 20, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Evergreen Cemetery, 60 Forest Lake Road, Winchester, NH. Private family gathering for immediate family following service.