It is with profound sadness and deep gratitude that the family of Charlene Smith in Avon, NJ (formerly Van Middlesworth) of Ocean Township announces that she passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. Charlene, age 73, died peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her beloved and devoted husband Gary to whom she was married to for 52 years, her two children Gregory Smith and wife Arleen, Daniel Smith and wife Bette; her six grandchildren Ericka, Cameron, Daniel, Amy, Eleese (Elee) and Leliza, cousins, nieces, nephews and countless friends. She was pre-deceased by both her parents William and Muriel Van Middlesworth of Ocean Township, and two brothers Charles Van Middlesworth of Fort Myers, FL and William Van Middlesworth, Jr., of Ocean Township. Charlene was a graduate of Brandywine College and loved raising her family in Avon. She was dedicated to working as a court administrator for the towns of Avon and Interlaken. She also worked for over 20 years for the Avon Board of Education. Her genuine welcoming presence to parents and school children contributed to her fulfillment, deep love, and commitment to the happiness of all children. When she was not spending time watching her grandchildren grow and attending all their sporting and school events, she enjoyed walking the boards with her beloved Gary, biking, exercising, playing tennis, reading, and hanging out at the pool and beach. She also loved hosting many family events at her home in Avon to reunite everyone together. Charlene had a deep connection with nature and gardening. She was particularly proud of her brothers who graduated from East Carolina University and filled her garden each year with an array of purple and yellow flowers. Charlene enjoyed spending the winter months in Bradenton, FL where she hosted visits with many friends and family members. She loved retirement and enjoyed many memorable “triangle trips” with her beloved Gary. Those who got to know Charlene appreciated that she was never afraid to share her honest thoughts regarding any matter. Her strength and determination was evident in how she ran her life and was a testament of how she fought to the end with grace and dignity. in honor of her deep love for gardening, tulips, and her “famous garden pots” by the pool, in lieu of flowers Charlene is requesting donations be made to the Avon Garden Club. Visitation Tuesday May 31, 2022 4:00-6:00 pm Buckley Funeral Home 509 Second Ave Asbury Park, NJ. Funeral Service and Interment is private. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in her name to Gardens of Avon-By-the-Sea. PO Box 365 Avon, NJ 07717-0365 Laurie Schoenhut, 516-445-7018
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