Barbara A. Smith

Barbara Anne Bopp Smith, 91, made her final rounds in St. Augustine, Florida before clocking out from a life devoted to service in the early hours of Monday, March 30, 2026. Born in New York City to John Alexander Coles and Anne Hardman on June 21, 1934, Barbara was a Bronx firecracker from the day she arrived. After graduating from high school, later raising a family in New York and Florida, Barbara found a second calling when she returned to school and became a nurse. Whether it was working in the pediatric unit at the old Flagler Hospital, being on the night shift in the Blue Ridge mountains, serving as a caregiver to special needs children, or giving her time at Community Hospice Bailey Family Center for Caring, Barbara fondly told stories about her experiences in patient care and impact on shaping a life full of purpose. A family-oriented woman who was quick as a whip and sharp as a tack, Barbara made the most of any opportunity to fill her home with loved ones. She adopted several treasured pets over the years, rarely went without a book in hand, cooked a mean Sunday roast, enjoyed sewing and crocheting, including being a Charter Member of the “Happy Hookers” who made blankets for Hospice patients, danced like a natural, debated with gusto, laughed from the soul, and always had a carton of ice cream with her name on it in stock. She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Patrick Fitzgerald, John Bopp and Milton Smith; son-in-law Jeffrey Rowles; and daughter-in-law Cyndy Fitzgerald. Barbara is survived by her children, son Stephen Fitzgerald (wife Ursula), daughter Patricia Fitzgerald Rowles, and son John Fitzgerald (wife Leanne); grandchildren Matthew Fitzgerald, Michael Fitzgerald, Gabriel Fitzgerald and Li Fitzgerald; brother Norman Coles (wife Mary Ann); niece Ann Marie Burnell (husband Tom); nephew John Coles (partner Tracy); and beloved cat Ellie. A celebration of Barbara’s extraordinary life will be held on April 18 at St Benedict the Moor Catholic Church with a 9 a.m. service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to S.A.F.E. Pet Rescue (https://safe-pet-rescue-fl.com/) or The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care (https://www.communityhospice.com/). Those desiring may leave messages of sympathy and encouragement by going to her tribute page at: https://www.stjohnsfamilyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/barbara-smith-269/#!/TributeWall. St. Johns Family Funeral Home of St. Augustine is assisting the family with arrangements.

Barbara A. Smith

June 21, 1934 - March 30, 2026