Carolyn Smith, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and retired school teacher, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, at the age of 73.
Born on July 31, 1951, Carolyn grew up in Ansonia, Connecticut, where she began a life full of love, learning, and strong family values. She was the loving daughter of June and Frank Kelly and sister to Mark Kelly and his wife, Carol, who preceded her in passing. Carolyn spent her career as a dedicated Region 15 elementary school teacher, touching the lives of countless young students with patience, care, and wisdom.
Carolyn’s love story with her husband, Bob, began in high school, where they were sweethearts. Though life took them in separate directions after graduation, they reunited several years later and built a life rooted in deep love and unwavering support. They were married for 39 years, and their bond remained a source of strength and inspiration to all who knew them. Even in her passing, the love they shared continues to shine as a beautiful legacy.
She raised her family in Southbury, Connecticut, creating a warm and welcoming home filled with laughter, support, and lasting memories. In retirement, she and Bob began spending part of the year in Cocoa Beach, Florida, drawn there by a desire to be closer to their son Michael and their grandson, Connor. They quickly grew to love the area — not just for the sunshine, but for the joy of watching rocket launches along the coast. They continued to split their time between Cocoa Beach and their home in Beacon Falls, embracing the best of both worlds.
Carolyn truly loved life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed traveling, especially family trips to Block Island, where memories were made year after year. She found joy in knitting with her lifelong friends Carol and Bobbie and loved sharing books and conversation with her book club.
Carolyn’s greatest joy came from her family. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Bob, and her cherished children: Michael, Jessica, Jennifer, and Bryan and his partner, Dina. She was a proud and loving grandmother to her grandson, Connor, who brought her endless joy and smiles. Carolyn also had a special place in her heart for her grand pups — Ace, Archer, Leelo, Luna, and Fred — each of whom brought comfort, companionship, and plenty of tail wags to her days.
She is also survived by her brother, John Kelly, and his wife, Sharon, as well as many dear friends and loved ones.
Carolyn will be remembered for her kindness, her quiet strength, and the gentle wisdom she shared with all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and former students whose lives she helped shape.
Friends may call on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at The Jenkins King & Malerba Funeral Home, 12 Franklin St., Ansonia. Services of Remembrance will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by burial at Pine Grove Cemetery in Ansonia. A repast lunch will be held afterward at Amici’s, 500 Howe Ave., Shelton, CT.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, ALS Therapy Development Institute or a charity of your choice in Carolyn’s memory.
