Obituary of Janet Helene Smith

Janet H. Smith, 89, of Delmar passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2022, after a brief illness.

Born November 13, 1932, in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late Arthur Akerstrom and Helen (Beary) Akerstrom.  Janet was a graduate of the Vincentian Institute, Russell Sage College, the College of St. Rose, and the University of Albany where she received her master’s degree in Fine Arts. 

Janet and George were lifelong residents of, and raised their family in, Delmar.  Janet loved Lake George and returned to spend every summer with her children’s families on Pilot Knob, creating lasting memories for her grandchildren.

Janet was an accomplished artist and while she did not start painting until her children were grown, her art collection adorns the walls of her children’s, grandchildren’s, friends’ homes and offices and her paintings remain some of the most cherished gifts from Janet.  Janet loved spending time in her studio with her grandchildren helping them create their own works of art and proudly displaying them on her walls. 

In addition to her husband of 62 years, George A. Smith; Janet is also survived by her children, Carolyn (James) Schimanski, Christopher (Kerry Dewitt) Smith, Ellen (Paul) Kelly; grandchildren, Maggie, Katie and Tristan Schimanski, and Emma, Elise and Devin Kelly.

Calling hours will be held at Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar NY, on Sunday July 31 from 2-4 p.m., followed by a service on Monday August 1^st at 2:00 pm to be held at Applebee Funeral Home.  Burial will be at the Bethlehem Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests that you donate to a charity of your choice in Janet’s name.