Cathy Smith

CATHY E SMITH
Loving Wife, Mother, and Grandmother


Cathy E. (Sabia) Smith, 63, of Watertown, died March 16, 2014 at home surrounded by her loving family after a brief battle with cancer. She and her husband, Robert C. Smith, celebrated their 44th anniversary on February 28th.

Cathy was born on July 9, 1950 in Waterbury, CT. She was the daughter of the late Louis and Victoria (Siwanowicz) Sabia. Cathy was a native of Naugatuck and graduated from St. Hedwig’s Grammar School and Naugatuck High School, class of 1968. She grew up in a tightknit family with her siblings and many cousins with which she maintained a close, loving relationship throughout her life. Of her many interests, she prized family above all else. She enjoyed cooking for family events and holidays. She loved house hunting, Cape Cod, traveling on long motor trips, and listening to Italian music while making her Sunday sauce. She cherished spending time with friends and family who enjoyed her great storytelling. She could imitate anyone and any accent, which added to the enjoyment of her stories. She lit up the room by her presence alone and laughter soon followed her arrival. She set a wonderful example for her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She was a woman of strong faith and old-fashioned values and instilled the same in others.

Cathy worked in the banking industry for many years, her last position being Property Manager for Bank of Boston. She continued work as President of the family-owned excavating business (R.C. Smith & Sons, Inc.) for over 20 years, which she ran with her husband, Bob.

Besides her husband, she is survived by six children: Jeffrey Smith (Meaghan Oates) of Oakville, Tracey Crane of Watertown, Paula Fabiani (James) of McLean, VA, Victoria Smith of Oakville, Jeremy Smith of Watertown, and Jonathan Smith (Stacy Delembo) of Naugatuck; five grandchildren Cadie Charest, Cameron & Madeline Leo (their father, David Leo), Jack, and Joseph Smith. She is also survived by her sister, and best friend, Beverlee Sabia of Waterbury and brother, David Sabia (Karen Tomaszeski) of Naugatuck; a niece: Karen (Palladino) Grabherr (Brian); two nephews: David and Nicholas Sabia; and two grandnieces: Abby and Jackie Grabherr. She was predeceased by her sister, Marilyn.

Cathy’s family would like to thank Dr. Allan Mayer and Dr. Zia Rahman, and the doctors, nurses, and entire staff of the 8th Floor Oncology Unit and Radiology Dept at St Francis Hospital in Hartford for their kindness and care.

A special thank you for the wonderful care provided by her oncology nurse, Debbie Konopka, at the St. Francis Oncology Center. She went above and beyond with her kindness, support, and understanding. Though Cathy’s time with Debbie was brief, a beautiful friendship developed, which included the entire family. Our gratitude toward Debbie is beyond words.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Mary Magdalen Church, 145 Buckingham Street, Oakville. Everyone is asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will be in St. James Cemetery in Naugatuck. Friends may call at the Buckmiller Brothers Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave, Naugatuck on Friday evening from 5-7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Memorial and Honor Program/ 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

Pallbearers: Brian Grabherr, Dave Leo, Pedro Lopez, Rob Pun, David Sabia, and Zane Siwanowicz