Gloucester - Patricia A. Smith, 89, of Gloucester, passed away in the hands of God on Monday, June 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Patricia lived a life defined by resilience, independence, generosity, and unwavering love for those closest to her.

Born in Everett, MA, Patricia was the daughter of Henry and Mary (Bagley) Gouthro. She grew up in a large family alongside her brothers, Bob Gouthro, Richard Gouthro, Henry Gouthro, Ronnie Paquin, and Dennis Paquin. As a child growing up in Everett, Patricia often shared fond memories of walking to Revere Beach with her brother Bob, spending entire summer days by the ocean with packed lunches and returning home only at dinnertime. Those carefree days by the water remained among her favorite childhood memories throughout her life.

In high school, Patricia worked as an assistant to a magician and loved telling stories about the performances and excitement that came with the job. She met her first husband during her high school years, and together they began building a family. Patricia welcomed her first daughter, Mary Eileen, in 1955, and later became so proud when Mary became the first college graduate. She also worked at Schafft's Candy in Somerville. She went on to marry her second husband Bob Smith and raise a large and loving family of 8 children in what we call her dream home on Long Beach in Gloucester MA, her youngest being Christian Smith born in 1978.

Pat was a woman of remarkable strength and determination. Independent, intelligent, and fiercely devoted to her family, she possessed a quick wit and a sharp mind that remained with her throughout her life. She loved reading books, working on crossword puzzles, recording TV shows, and keeping her mind active. She enjoyed traveling and created countless memories exploring destinations from Maine to California and many places in between. One of her favorite destinations was Graceland, a place she always spoke of with great affection. She loved working at the Design Center of Cape Ann and created custom furniture that combined fine woodworking with distinctive polymer-clay surface designs.

Family was at the center of Patricia's life. After moving to Malden, she delighted in hosting large Fourth of July celebrations and took special joy in dressing her children in matching patriotic outfits. Later on in Gloucester she took pride in hosting all the holidays and really spoiled everyone, which brought her great delight. Her home was always filled with laughter, stories, good food, and the warmth of family gatherings. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and cats.

Patricia is survived by her beloved brother, Dennis Paquin and her children: Mary Parga, Karen Doherty, Linda Sensale, Lauren Hunt, Patricia Meuse Pelletier, Richard Meuse, Michael Smith, and Christian Smith.

Among Patricia's greatest blessings was the unwavering love and devotion of her children. For many years, her daughter, Lauren, selflessly cared for her mother with extraordinary compassion and dedication. Lauren was always there to provide support, comfort, and assistance, putting her mother's needs before her own. Although illness eventually prevented Lauren from continuing in that caregiving role, Patricia never stopped speaking of her daughter's kindness, generosity, and loving heart.

In her later years, Patricia was especially blessed by the devoted care of her son, Christian Smith. Christian faithfully stood by his mother's side, assisting with her daily needs, shopping, laundry, household chores, caring for her beloved animals, and ensuring she remained comfortable and supported. His tireless dedication, compassion, and constant presence allowed Patricia to remain surrounded by the comforts of home and family. The love and selflessness shown by both Lauren and Christian were gifts Patricia cherished deeply and for which she remained profoundly grateful. She also leaves behind 37 cherished grandchildren, including Marianna Parga, who lovingly stood by her side through every step of her life and played a vital role in her healthcare along with being her what she called "angel who had the patience of a saint." Her granddaughter Lindsey Smith was one she cherished and knew she could rely on and she held her memories with her so dear to her heart. She is also survived by more than 10 great-grandchildren, a few great-great-grandchildren and her son, Chris's best-friend Dale Gray who was accepted into the family as her son, whom she loved unconditionally.

Patricia was predeceased by her parents, Henry and Mary Gouthro, and her brothers Bob Gouthro, Richard Gouthro, Henry Gouthro, and Ronnie Paquin who welcomed her into eternal peace.

Those who knew Pat will remember her as a strong, stubborn, loving woman who never gave up, always spoke her mind, and loved her family beyond measure. Her legacy lives on through the generations she nurtured and the memories she created with those fortunate enough to know and love her.

"A mother's love is carried in the hearts of her children forever." M

Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Patricia's life and share memories of the remarkable woman she was.

A visitation will be held in St. Ann's Church, Holy Family Parish on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. followed by a Mass celebrated at 11:30 a.m.

Following the Mass family and friends are invited to accompany Patricia to her final resting place in Calvary Cemetery.

Feel free to wear pink her favorite color!

Arrangements by the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester.

For online condolences, please visit http://www.greelyfuneralhome.com.