Barbara Jean Smith

Born on July 1, 1936 in Oceanside, New York, Barbara was the daughter of Charles and Margaret Acker and was sister to her predeceased brother Carl Acker (Diane).

Barbara grew up and lived on Long Island, NY. She met, married her first husband, Frederick D. Gunvaldsen, deceased, and they had 5 children, Linda Rand (Michael),

Frederick Gunvaldsen, deceased (Mary), Deborah Gunvaldsen, Ronald Gunvaldsen, deceased (Tara), and Wayne Gunvaldsen.

After the death of her first husband Fred, Barbara got remarried to Benjamin Smith (deceased) and they had 2 children, Laura Smith and Ellen Smith.

Although Barbara had 7 children of her own she took in and helped so many other children who were less fortunate and treated them as if they were her own. They all looked at her as a surrogate mom.

Barbara went to college for nursing on Long Island and then began her work at Good Samaritan hospital in West Islip, NY. Although she worked in all departments of the hospital, she loved the emergency room the best. It takes a certain kind of person to do this and she was that person.

In 1986 Barbara moved to Florida to be closer to her family. She resumed her work as a nurse at Internal Medicine Associates in Plantation, Florida. She was very well regarded by her doctors, coworkers and patients. Her patients continued to keep in touch with her even after she retired at the age of 67.

Barbara had 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Although Barbara had many trials and tribulations throughout her years she loved her life. She will be greatly missed by many.

A visitation for Barbara will be held from 4-6pm on Thursday, April 6, 2023 at Aycock Funeral home at 6801 Southeast Federal Hwy, Stuart, Florida 34997

(772-223-9300). Family and friends are welcome to join us to celebrate Barbara’s life by sharing fond memories and expressions of sympathy.

After transporting Barbara to Long Island, a graveside service will be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Corum, NY on Monday, April 10, 2023 at 11AM where she will be laid to rest with her husband Frederick Gunvaldsen.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that tribute donations may be made online to the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast at SW Leighton Farm Avenue,

Palm City, Florida 34994. 772-223-8822