Caroline S. Smith, 58, of Smethport, PA passed away Thursday (May 2, 2024) at her residence.

On March 14, 1966, a Yankees fan was born, named Caroline Sakin to her parents Edna and Howard Sakin of Scarsdale, NY.  Her love for the Yankees permeated most every aspect of her life.  So, when Caroline met Kent W. Smith, while attending Mitchell College in New London, CT, it was only natural that one of their first dates was to see the Yankees play at Yankee Stadium.   On the way, they got lost, and ended up in the wrong section of the bleachers.  Suddenly, there was a great commotion and Caroline and Kent realized that a ball — a home run ball — was coming right their way!  It was Ricky Henderson’s 32nd lead-off home run ball and Kent picked it up as they made their way to their seat.  It was the beginning of a long and happy relationship.  They celebrated their 30th anniversary in March this year.

Caroline and Kent dated 9 years before marrying on 3/5/1994 in Scarsdale, NY.  They settled in Hillsdale, NJ, where they frequently had friends over for get together.  Caroline worked at a day care and later at Cherry Lawn Farmers Market.  They spent their evenings watching the Yankees every chance they could.  In 2008, Caroline fulfilled a dream by watching the World Series with Yogi Berra and meeting him in person.

Caroline and Kent spent many weekends at the Jersey shore, at Long Beach Island, where they would gather with friends. She enjoyed spending time at the beach, walking on the sand, soaking up the sun, and watching the ocean waves.   Caroline also loved going to concerts and saw her favorite bands many times.  She must have seen Aerosmith, her all-time favorite band perform live at least 40 times.  There were many other bands that Caroline saw throughout the years either with Kent, or with good friends, including Tom Petty, The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jimmy Buffett, No Doubt, Mott the Hoople, Elvis Costello, Allman Brothers, Beck, Cheap Trick, and many, many more.  Caroline and Kent also enjoyed Broadway plays and saw “The Producers”, “Spamalot”, “A Streetcar Named Desire” and others.  They even saw Carol Channing in “Hello Dolly”.

She is survived by her husband, Kent W. Smith, sister Karen DeMasi, niece Shannen Wray, Nephew Nick DeMasi, Sister-in-law Wallis “Walt” Davenport, niece Liv Davenport, & extended family & friends. 

Caroline is predeceased by her parents. 

A memorial service for Caroline will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024, at 11AM in the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport, PA, with the Rev. Frank Eppley, pastor of the Emmanuel Mission Church of Kane, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the McKean County SPCA, because of Caroline’s lifelong love of animals and especially cats.  Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.