Jean A Smith

Jean A. Smith, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, nurse, and Nana, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born on October 7, 1943, in Worcester, MA, she was the daughter of Anna M. Toupin and George W. Toupin. Jean was the loving wife of Thomas G. Smith of Orleans, and a devoted mother to Sherry Leigh Salerno and her husband Anthony Salerno of Eastham, as well as her son Michael T. Smith of Brewster. Her family—Sherry, Michael, and Tom—were by her side during her recent battle with Alzheimer's. Jean was also the proud Nana of two grandchildren, Nicholas (22) and Dante (19) Salerno, who brought her great joy.

Jean was one of nine children, with three sisters and five brothers. Together, they shared many cherished memories, especially at Browning Pond in Spencer. A dedicated nurse for more than 45 years, Jean graduated from Quinsigamond Nursing School and spent her career caring for others, both in the Worcester area and at Pleasant Bay in Brewster, MA. Her passion for nursing was evident in the many heartfelt notes from patients and frequent visits from co-workers, who remembered her for her compassionate bedside manner, unwavering commitment to her patients, and the strong bonds she formed with her fellow nurses.

As a child, Jean spent summers in Brewster, where her father worked as a chef at Cape Cod Sea Camps. Summer days spent by the beach became some of her happiest memories. She loved sharing the beauty of the Cape with her own family. Jean was particularly fond of activities like boogie boarding in Wellfleet with her children, grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, swimming in the bay in Eastham, and boating in front of her home in Fort Hill. She had a lifelong love of music and dancing, always known for her "spunk" and boundless energy.

Jean’s vibrant spirit, warm heart, and infectious enthusiasm will be forever cherished by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service to others, and she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many lives she touched throughout her nursing career.

A celebration of Jean’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jean’s memory to Broadreach Hospice, 1455 Main St. (Rte 28) Chatham, MA 02633.