Pauline Smith

Pauline Holdridge Smith, 92 yrs. of Norwich, NY, formerly of New Berlin, passed away on October 25, 2018.

Pauline was born in New Berlin, NY to Ernest (Tom) and Violet Farthing Holdrige on 12/11/1925.  The family moved to Edmeston, NY when she was four years old.  Pauline graduated from Edmeston Central School and later attended the evening division of Utica College of Syracuse University and also took courses at the State University College at Morrisville-Norwich Campus.

Pauline married Robert P. Smith and they celebrated over 50 years of marriage before Bob passed away in 2005.  Both were very active members of the community.  Pauline worked at Preferred Mutual Insurance Company in New Berlin until her retirement in 1986.  A member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, she served on the Vestry, was a lector and Lay Reader, a member of the choir, President of the ECW for two years, and was the First women elected Warden.  Pauline was also active in the Episcopal Diocese of Central New York as a member of the Foundation of the Diocese, the Venture in Missions Funding Committee and in 1984, became the first woman elected to the office of Trustee.  Pauline served on the Board of Chase Nursing Home.  She also served as treasurer and trustee of New Berlin Library.  Additionally, she served as President of the Chenango County Republican Woman’s Club, was a director of the New Berlin Art Forum and the Chenango County Council of the Arts.  Pauline was a volunteer at Basset Hospital in Cooperstown, NY and an Ambassador of the Chenango County Chamber of Commerce.

After her husband Bob passed away, Pauline moved to Norwich, NY – first living at Hillside House Apartments and later at the Chenango Valley Home apartments.  She was a member of the Joseph Jefferson Book Club of Oxford and baked many cookies for functions at the Historical Museum in Norwich.  Pauline also volunteered at Hospice and the Classic Car Museum.

Pauline is survived by her daughter, Sharlene Smith of Coral Springs, Fl.  She was pre-deceased by her parents and both brothers, Richard and Duane.  She is also survived by several nieces and nephews as well as many wonderful and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Norwich, NY Thursday, November 1, 2018 at 11:00 AM with Father Steve White officiating.  The burial will be in St. Andrew’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the food pantry at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Norwich, NY or the charity of your choice.  No flowers will be allowed in the church.