Obituary for Sharon Farrelly (Smith)
Sharon S. Farrelly (Smith), widow of John ("Jack"), died on October 10, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was not only a loving mother to Christine (Laura Torres) and Eileen (Manoj Doshi), but also full of immense pride and devotion as a grandmother to Lynette, Luz, and Diego Torres of Maryland, and Megan and Jack Doshi of Wethersfield.
Sharon's journey began in Newport, Rhode Island, as the beloved daughter of Ralph T. Smith and Lucille (Bulbo). She held a special affection in her heart for Newport, a sentiment that never waned. As a Navy 'brat', she grew up alongside her younger brother Ralph (Cheryl), whom she leaves behind, experiencing life in Rhode Island, Maryland, and ultimately settling in Connecticut. She was an aunt to Morgan and Logan Smith, Dan, Jon, and Jeff Tapper, and Sean and Meeghan (Stilson) Farrelly. She also leaves behind brothers and sisters-in-law: Bud and Del Farrelly, Kay and Joe Tapper, and Brian Farrelly, along with cousins from both sides, including the Geerts and Packs, as well as John's cousins, the Johnsons and Mulryans.
Sharon's journey continued at Prince Tech Trade School, where she honed her skills in sewing. It was there that she met John, the love of her life and her devoted husband for 54 years, until he died on September 18, 2022. While she contemplated pursuing a degree in fashion design at the Pratt Institute in NYC, her heart led her to choose a life with John instead. Sharon's career path led her to the business office at St. Francis and later to the cutting-edge IT Department, where she worked with innovative IBM mainframe computers in the 1960s. When John's Navy service concluded, Sharon made the decision to leave St. Francis and embrace her role as a dedicated wife and stay-at-home mother. The couple relocated from Hartford to Wethersfield in 1971, purchasing their home on Nott Street. In her signature yellow VW beetle, each day she brought John back and forth from work and joined him for lunch. She shuttled the girls to school, the beach, the pool, and every other adventure they embarked on. She also generously gave her time, volunteering at the girls' elementary school and immersing herself in the world of planting and flowers with a part-time job at Comstock Ferry.
In 1981, Sharon returned to the workforce, breaking barriers as a female journeyman painter in Local Union #481, and was the first woman trustee of the painter’s union. She took great pride that her hard-earned wages supported her daughters' education at St. Joseph College, a testament to her unwavering commitment to their success. From 1993 until her retirement, Sharon held the esteemed position of Head Painter at the State of Connecticut Capitol in Hartford, specializing in the meticulous art of restoration. Her expertise extended to a mastery of historical paint colors, painting techniques, faux finishes, and stenciling. In recognition of her exceptional contributions, then-Governor Rowland appointed Sharon to the State Commission on Capitol Preservation and Restoration in 1997, a position she held until the time of her retirement.
Sharon was a true artist, employing her creative talents in a myriad of ways throughout her life. She sewed, stenciled, molded, and even adorned bread dough with intricate designs. Her paintings were a testament to her skill and imagination. When she was younger, Sharon joined in a weekly spirited girls' night, crafting well into the early hours of the morning. She dedicated countless hours to the planning, design, and meticulous quilting of beautiful quilts, selecting fabrics, designs, and shapes with great care. From the practicality of fastening buttons to crafting themed swaddle baby blankets with matching clothing and hats, Sharon's sewing skills knew no bounds. She could bring any pattern to life, from a stuffed pterodactyl to years of Halloween costumes that delighted all of her grandchildren.
Sharon found joy in sharing her artistic abilities, particularly with her grandchildren. Her paper crafts contained intricate designs, from unique cards to delicate paper flower wreaths. Sharon never settled for store-bought cards, instead, she poured her heart into creating a unique card for each occasion. Through this, she imparted the significance of a personal touch, a tradition her grandchildren are determined to carry forward.
Sharon's artistic flair seamlessly extended to the kitchen, where she always experimented with new recipes. Her culinary skills grew over the years, and she took immense joy in preparing meals for John and their loved ones. For decades, Sharon and John cooked and prepared an annual Christmas Eve gathering. Among her culinary achievements, Sharon was particularly renowned for her red sauce, a staple at spaghetti nights on Broad Street, and a recipe that earned a spot in a local Wethersfield cookbook. Sharon's family will fondly remember and dearly miss her mouthwatering creations, which ranged from classics like spaghetti and meatballs, homemade pizza, and Christmas cookies to more unique delights such as bean pie, lasagna, cranberry cake, peanut butter squares, and moist carrot cake. Even something as simple as a grilled cheese sandwich became a beloved treat in Sharon's capable hands. Together with Eileen, Sharon delved into cake decorating, ensuring that each birthday was marked by a "showstopper" cake creation. Her love for gardening found its way into her culinary endeavors, with homegrown produce elevating dishes like ratatouille, pesto, and spaghetti sauce. As the pandemic altered their routines, Sharon turned to a new pursuit: she acquired a bag of flour, and soon emerged as a skilled bread baker, crafting delicious loaves that brought comfort and joy to those fortunate enough to savor them.
Sharon loved the color red, hot fudge sundaes with vanilla ice cream, autumn was her favorite season, peonies were her favorite flower, and her magical green thumb provided a fragrant and colorful yard of lavender, lilacs, and walls of hydrangeas. Sharon relished in warm weather and enjoyed traveling. She loved the beach, whether it was at Soundview in CT, Misquamicut in RI, Boynton Beach, FL, or San Diego, CA. Always ready to indulge in margaritas, cold beer, and red wine, for Sharon, it was always 5 o'clock. Her favorite trip was one she took with John to Hilton Head, but she enjoyed their trips out to San Diego, especially after Megan was born.
An avid reader, insatiable learner, and PBS enthusiast, Sharon enjoyed learning and having an intimate knowledge of many things. She took and passed the Washington Post's news quiz right up until her death. She walked far and often, listening to books, until her COPD prevented her from doing so. Although she kept it hidden, growing up on Navy bases turned Sharon into quite the pool shark. Sharon had many hobbies and interests that she shared with her family. Sharon became very passionate about genealogy, and discovered some interesting facts about her and John’s ancestors. As part of that process, she visited cemeteries, and she and John worked to restore her grandfather's tombstone.
Sharon's furry companions were not just pets, they were members of her family. From Muffin and Jake the lab mixes, Rudy and Lucky the German shepherds, and Boo the cockapoo (named from her favorite book, To Kill A Mockingbird), each brought their own brand of joy into her life. Buddy, also a cockapoo, was her constant companion since John's death, and was with her when she died.
Above all, Sharon was a pillar of love and support for her family. With John by her side for 54 years, the past eleven months without him weighed heavily on her heart. As a couple, Sharon and John remained in love with one another until death parted them. Sharon and John lived every aspect of their lives together and only were apart when it came to caring for their girls or grandchildren. They held hands, talked about everything, shared decision-making and supported one another completely. Sharon and John balanced and complemented each other in life, and were best friends who never fell out of love.
Although John and Sharon were inseparable for 54 years, they were distinct individuals, each with their unique qualities. Sharon had an adventurous spirit and was open to trying new things. She had a keen interest in technology, owning two iPads, an Apple watch, and always keeping up with the latest iPhone. Sharon was tech-savvy, using apps for bird feeding and birdwatching, playing games, texting, Facetiming, and even actively posting and liking things as @butter.cup46 on Instagram.
Known as the "World's Greatest Grandmother," Sharon was always there for her grandchildren. Her title was well-earned, as she was ever-ready with rides, comforting meals, engaging activities, and most importantly, boundless affection and support. She spent countless moments with them, engaging in their interests and hobbies. Her impact on her grandchildren's lives was immeasurable, their strengths celebrated, and their journeys championed.
Sharon loved her younger brother Ralphie, enjoyed his company and their almost daily correspondence through email, and admired his love for his grandchildren. Sharon held dear the regular phone conversations with her Aunt Betty and treasured the moments spent with Aunt Betty and cousin Sandra (Geerts) of Southington whose company filled her heart with laughter and boundless joy. Del Farrelly's thoughtful check-ins after John's death were a source of comfort and support. Sharon enjoyed visits from Billy Johnson who always brought a new, old story; and Sharon held a very special spot in her heart for her niece Meeghan (Farrelly) Stilson of Wethersfield, who she adored and she “loved that little girl.”
Please join us to commemorate Sharon's life and share memories at Farley & Sullivan, Sunday, October 15, 2023, from 3 p.m to 5 p.m. Burial will be Monday, October 16, 2023, at 10 a.m. in the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sharon's memory to the Wethersfield Library, 515 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield, CT 06109.
Sharon's journey began in Newport, Rhode Island, as the beloved daughter of Ralph T. Smith and Lucille (Bulbo). She held a special affection in her heart for Newport, a sentiment that never waned. As a Navy 'brat', she grew up alongside her younger brother Ralph (Cheryl), whom she leaves behind, experiencing life in Rhode Island, Maryland, and ultimately settling in Connecticut. She was an aunt to Morgan and Logan Smith, Dan, Jon, and Jeff Tapper, and Sean and Meeghan (Stilson) Farrelly. She also leaves behind brothers and sisters-in-law: Bud and Del Farrelly, Kay and Joe Tapper, and Brian Farrelly, along with cousins from both sides, including the Geerts and Packs, as well as John's cousins, the Johnsons and Mulryans.
Sharon's journey continued at Prince Tech Trade School, where she honed her skills in sewing. It was there that she met John, the love of her life and her devoted husband for 54 years, until he died on September 18, 2022. While she contemplated pursuing a degree in fashion design at the Pratt Institute in NYC, her heart led her to choose a life with John instead. Sharon's career path led her to the business office at St. Francis and later to the cutting-edge IT Department, where she worked with innovative IBM mainframe computers in the 1960s. When John's Navy service concluded, Sharon made the decision to leave St. Francis and embrace her role as a dedicated wife and stay-at-home mother. The couple relocated from Hartford to Wethersfield in 1971, purchasing their home on Nott Street. In her signature yellow VW beetle, each day she brought John back and forth from work and joined him for lunch. She shuttled the girls to school, the beach, the pool, and every other adventure they embarked on. She also generously gave her time, volunteering at the girls' elementary school and immersing herself in the world of planting and flowers with a part-time job at Comstock Ferry.
In 1981, Sharon returned to the workforce, breaking barriers as a female journeyman painter in Local Union #481, and was the first woman trustee of the painter’s union. She took great pride that her hard-earned wages supported her daughters' education at St. Joseph College, a testament to her unwavering commitment to their success. From 1993 until her retirement, Sharon held the esteemed position of Head Painter at the State of Connecticut Capitol in Hartford, specializing in the meticulous art of restoration. Her expertise extended to a mastery of historical paint colors, painting techniques, faux finishes, and stenciling. In recognition of her exceptional contributions, then-Governor Rowland appointed Sharon to the State Commission on Capitol Preservation and Restoration in 1997, a position she held until the time of her retirement.
Sharon was a true artist, employing her creative talents in a myriad of ways throughout her life. She sewed, stenciled, molded, and even adorned bread dough with intricate designs. Her paintings were a testament to her skill and imagination. When she was younger, Sharon joined in a weekly spirited girls' night, crafting well into the early hours of the morning. She dedicated countless hours to the planning, design, and meticulous quilting of beautiful quilts, selecting fabrics, designs, and shapes with great care. From the practicality of fastening buttons to crafting themed swaddle baby blankets with matching clothing and hats, Sharon's sewing skills knew no bounds. She could bring any pattern to life, from a stuffed pterodactyl to years of Halloween costumes that delighted all of her grandchildren.
Sharon found joy in sharing her artistic abilities, particularly with her grandchildren. Her paper crafts contained intricate designs, from unique cards to delicate paper flower wreaths. Sharon never settled for store-bought cards, instead, she poured her heart into creating a unique card for each occasion. Through this, she imparted the significance of a personal touch, a tradition her grandchildren are determined to carry forward.
Sharon's artistic flair seamlessly extended to the kitchen, where she always experimented with new recipes. Her culinary skills grew over the years, and she took immense joy in preparing meals for John and their loved ones. For decades, Sharon and John cooked and prepared an annual Christmas Eve gathering. Among her culinary achievements, Sharon was particularly renowned for her red sauce, a staple at spaghetti nights on Broad Street, and a recipe that earned a spot in a local Wethersfield cookbook. Sharon's family will fondly remember and dearly miss her mouthwatering creations, which ranged from classics like spaghetti and meatballs, homemade pizza, and Christmas cookies to more unique delights such as bean pie, lasagna, cranberry cake, peanut butter squares, and moist carrot cake. Even something as simple as a grilled cheese sandwich became a beloved treat in Sharon's capable hands. Together with Eileen, Sharon delved into cake decorating, ensuring that each birthday was marked by a "showstopper" cake creation. Her love for gardening found its way into her culinary endeavors, with homegrown produce elevating dishes like ratatouille, pesto, and spaghetti sauce. As the pandemic altered their routines, Sharon turned to a new pursuit: she acquired a bag of flour, and soon emerged as a skilled bread baker, crafting delicious loaves that brought comfort and joy to those fortunate enough to savor them.
Sharon loved the color red, hot fudge sundaes with vanilla ice cream, autumn was her favorite season, peonies were her favorite flower, and her magical green thumb provided a fragrant and colorful yard of lavender, lilacs, and walls of hydrangeas. Sharon relished in warm weather and enjoyed traveling. She loved the beach, whether it was at Soundview in CT, Misquamicut in RI, Boynton Beach, FL, or San Diego, CA. Always ready to indulge in margaritas, cold beer, and red wine, for Sharon, it was always 5 o'clock. Her favorite trip was one she took with John to Hilton Head, but she enjoyed their trips out to San Diego, especially after Megan was born.
An avid reader, insatiable learner, and PBS enthusiast, Sharon enjoyed learning and having an intimate knowledge of many things. She took and passed the Washington Post's news quiz right up until her death. She walked far and often, listening to books, until her COPD prevented her from doing so. Although she kept it hidden, growing up on Navy bases turned Sharon into quite the pool shark. Sharon had many hobbies and interests that she shared with her family. Sharon became very passionate about genealogy, and discovered some interesting facts about her and John’s ancestors. As part of that process, she visited cemeteries, and she and John worked to restore her grandfather's tombstone.
Sharon's furry companions were not just pets, they were members of her family. From Muffin and Jake the lab mixes, Rudy and Lucky the German shepherds, and Boo the cockapoo (named from her favorite book, To Kill A Mockingbird), each brought their own brand of joy into her life. Buddy, also a cockapoo, was her constant companion since John's death, and was with her when she died.
Above all, Sharon was a pillar of love and support for her family. With John by her side for 54 years, the past eleven months without him weighed heavily on her heart. As a couple, Sharon and John remained in love with one another until death parted them. Sharon and John lived every aspect of their lives together and only were apart when it came to caring for their girls or grandchildren. They held hands, talked about everything, shared decision-making and supported one another completely. Sharon and John balanced and complemented each other in life, and were best friends who never fell out of love.
Although John and Sharon were inseparable for 54 years, they were distinct individuals, each with their unique qualities. Sharon had an adventurous spirit and was open to trying new things. She had a keen interest in technology, owning two iPads, an Apple watch, and always keeping up with the latest iPhone. Sharon was tech-savvy, using apps for bird feeding and birdwatching, playing games, texting, Facetiming, and even actively posting and liking things as @butter.cup46 on Instagram.
Known as the "World's Greatest Grandmother," Sharon was always there for her grandchildren. Her title was well-earned, as she was ever-ready with rides, comforting meals, engaging activities, and most importantly, boundless affection and support. She spent countless moments with them, engaging in their interests and hobbies. Her impact on her grandchildren's lives was immeasurable, their strengths celebrated, and their journeys championed.
Sharon loved her younger brother Ralphie, enjoyed his company and their almost daily correspondence through email, and admired his love for his grandchildren. Sharon held dear the regular phone conversations with her Aunt Betty and treasured the moments spent with Aunt Betty and cousin Sandra (Geerts) of Southington whose company filled her heart with laughter and boundless joy. Del Farrelly's thoughtful check-ins after John's death were a source of comfort and support. Sharon enjoyed visits from Billy Johnson who always brought a new, old story; and Sharon held a very special spot in her heart for her niece Meeghan (Farrelly) Stilson of Wethersfield, who she adored and she “loved that little girl.”
Please join us to commemorate Sharon's life and share memories at Farley & Sullivan, Sunday, October 15, 2023, from 3 p.m to 5 p.m. Burial will be Monday, October 16, 2023, at 10 a.m. in the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sharon's memory to the Wethersfield Library, 515 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield, CT 06109.