Barbara Ann Smithgall

Barbara Ann Smithgall, beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully, with her husband by her bedside, after a courageous and unwavering battle with breast cancer. She was the cherished wife of her devoted husband, John Smithgall, with whom she shared 23 years of love, laughter, and countless memories. Together for 23 years and married on June 4, 2004, they built a life defined by unwavering devotion, friendship, and love. Barbara passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, just one day before what would have been their 22nd wedding anniversary. Born and raised in Gates, New York, Barbara was the eldest daughter of Mary Ann Asam. She was predeceased by her father, John, and by her parents-in-law, James and Lucille Smithgall. She is survived by her loving sister, Suzanne Winter (Paul); her treasured niece, Madelyn Winter; her sisters-in-law, Suzanne Burt (David), Doris Barbeau (Stephen), and Cindy Palmer (Jerry); her dearest lifelong friend, Lisa Wetzel (Scott); goddaughters, Alexis Wetzel and Caterina Vasile; two nieces, three nephews, and many cousins who brought her immense joy throughout her life. A gifted musician and natural leader, Barbara was a pianist and the senior class president of the Class of 1989 at Gates Chili High School, who lit up the stage as the lead actress in many school productions, including Mame. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Secondary Education from the State University of New York at Brockport. She later earned a master’s degree in Human Resource Development from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Barbara began her professional journey as a teacher in Horseheads, NY, where her warmth and professionalism left an indelible mark. She went on to dedicate more than a decade to Monroe Community College, serving as both an Admissions Counselor and Assistant Professor, where she guided and inspired countless students. She later served as the Associate Director of Admissions at Medaille College's Rochester campus, continuing her lifelong commitment to education and student success. Barbara was deeply engaged in professional organizations and leadership roles that reflected her passion for collaboration, mentorship, and service. She served as the Western New York Representative for the New York State Transfer & Articulation Association (NYSTAA) from 2013 to 2015 and was an active member from 2011 to 2016. She was also a proud member of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC) from 1998 to 2009, during which she served as President (2007–2009) and President-Elect (2005–2007), leading initiatives to empower women in higher education. Additionally, Barbara was an engaged member of the State University of New York College Admissions Professionals (SUNYCAP) from 1998 to 2009, where she served on the Executive Board (2002–2004), coordinated New Professionals Orientation at SUNY System Administration in Albany, and contributed to multicultural programming and statewide conference planning. She was also a proud graduate of the Leadership Rochester program (2011–2012), further reflecting her commitment to professional growth and community engagement. Barbara and John built three homes together in Chili and Webster, New York, and ultimately in Statham, Georgia, each becoming their own special retreat, thoughtfully designed and lovingly maintained as the backdrop for a life well lived together. Together, they loved traveling to warmer destinations, enjoying the company of dear friends and family, and sharing their lives with their beloved dogs, Teddy, Hazel, and Charlie. Those who knew Barbara will forever remember her as a woman with a loving and generous heart. She had a remarkable ability to remember every birthday and anniversary, always offering heartfelt notes and singing her signature “Kings and Queens” birthday song to those she held dear. A devoted dog lover and a quiet champion of kindness, Barbara never walked past someone in need without offering help, embodying grace and compassion in every interaction. Her battle with breast cancer began in 2009 with a stage zero diagnosis and continued with extraordinary strength and dignity when the disease returned as stage four in 2018. Throughout her battle, Barbara’s faith, optimism, and unshakable love for her family and friends never wavered. Her strength and kindness will remain an inspiration to all who were blessed to know her. Family and friends are invited to her Funeral Mass at St. Pius Tenth Catholic Church, 3000 Chili Ave. Rochester, NY 14624 on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM, followed by a blessing and interment of her ashes at Christ Our Light Mausoleum at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Barbara’s family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, you simply keep Barb and her loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. Throughout her illness, so many family members and friends generously supported Barb’s care and needs, and both Barb and John were deeply grateful for the extraordinary kindness, love, and support shown to them during this time.