Pauline R. (Matis) Smith

Connecticut - Pauline R. Smith, 91, of West Hartford, CT, and a former St. Johnsville resident, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the University of Connecticut Health in Farmington, with her loving family by her side.

She was born on January 26, 1935, in St. Johnsville, the daughter of the late Daniel and Lena (Sindici) Matis Sr., and was a graduate of St. Johnsville High School.

On March 27, 1958, Pauline was united in marriage to Melvin C. Smith in Fort Plain, NY. The couple shared a blessed union of 50 years until the passing of Melvin on February 10, 2009.

At one time, Pauline was employed in the Finance Department of General Electric in Syracuse, NY.

Pauline spent her life as a devoted mother and wife. She enjoyed many hobbies and parties with friends and family. Pauline and husband, Mel were always very social with friends, siblings, and cousins during their time in Florida, New Hartford, and St. Johnsville. They cherished their time in the Adirondacks, every summer with their daughters, and husbands, all their grandchildren and many family visitors. 

She is survived by her two daughters, Dana Shimkus and husband Chuck of West Hartford, CT, and Paula Dufault and husband David of West Hartford, CT; seven grandchildren, Danielle (Matt), Abby, Mary (AJ), Charlie, Jessica, Jacob (Shay), and Joshua; a great granddaughter, Charlotte Bloomberg; a brother, Timothy Matis, and many adored nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was pre-deceased by a sister, Sharon Zimmer and husband Richard, and a brother, Daniel Matis, Jr. and wife Maxine.

The family will be receiving relatives and friends on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 am at the locally owned and family operated, Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service (next to the Masonic Lodge) 20 Bridge St., St. Johnsville, NY. A prayer service will follow at 11:00 am in the chapel of the funeral home. Burial will follow at Fort Plain Cemetery.  All memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, PO Box 88540, Carol Stream, IL 60188 or to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 8th Ave, 16 Floor, New York, NY 10001. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Pauline R. (Matis) Smith, please visit our floral store.