Barbara J. Smith

Barbara J Smith of Antigo passed away on February 13, 2024 at Evergreen Terrace at the age of 91. Barb was under the care of her family, the staff of Evergreen Terrace and LeRoyer Hospice.

Barb was born on June 10, 1932 in Rhinelander to the late Wayne and Louise (Tillman) Kuney. The family resided in Three Lakes and Rhinelander before moving to Marinesco, MI where Barb graduated from high school. She went on to enlist in the US Air Force.

She was united in marriage to Jerry Smith and the couple later divorced.

Barb had a successful career as an administrative assistant working for the superintendent of the Antigo School District, assistant to the Langlade County Juvenile Court Supervisor, assistant to the Langlade County Circuit Court Judge McDougal, and lastly retiring from Department of Natural Resources.

Barb lived her life faithfully and was deeply committed to God. She was a member of Ss. Mary and Hyacinth Catholic Church. Along with Flore Doverspike, Barb organized the Aaron Meyer Prayer Shawl Circle. She was also involved in the Christian Concern Group. Barb loved to knit and watch sports, especially golf and football. She was also a Girl Scout leader for many years. She most of all loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Barb is survived by daughters Shelly (Paul) Payant of Antigo, Cathy Meyer of Fitchburg, son David Smith of White Lake, grandchildren Patrick (Megan) Meyer, Alex Payant, Chelsea (Charlie) Husnick, Ellie Payant, and Nicole Payant, and great grandchildren Wesley Meyer and Simon Meyer.

In addition to her parents, Barb was preceded in death by a grandson Aaron Meyer, brothers Don Kuney and Arthur Kuney, and sister Jackie Rothaus.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Barb will be held on Friday, February 16, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Ss. Mary and Hyacinth Catholic Church with the Very Reverend Joel Sember and Father Charles Hoffmann officiating. Visitation will take place prior to the service at the church from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Burial will take place at a later date at the Three Lakes Town Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Barb’s name may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project or All Saints Catholic School. Barb’s family would like to extend a special thank you to LeRoyer Hospice and the staff of Evergreen Terrace for their loving care during this most difficult time.