Maryellen Smith

WEST BOYLSTON – Maryellen (Villnave) Smith, born in Worcester, passed away at home on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. She was 67. 

She was the daughter of the late John P. and Elva (Jacques) Villnave. Maryellen was a loving mother, sister, and friend. She will be deeply missed.

Maryellen grew up in Holden and graduated from Wachusett Regional High School, class of 1976. She attended Quinsigamond Community College and completed their nursing program. She worked at UMass Memorial Hospital in Worcester as a dedicated and compassionate nurse. She met her husband, Glenn Smith, and raised her children in Worcester and later in West Boylston.

Maryellen was a passionate gardener, often stepping in to tidy up gardens that needed tending. Shefound joy in helping others, whether giving of her time, possessions, or simply lending an ear. Maryellen loved old movies and crocheting, regularly giving away sweaters and blankets to others.

As a child, Maryellen spent family vacations at Hampton Beach, NH. These trips generated fond memories, which she tried to duplicate for her children. She lovingly cared for her daughter, Melanie, who meant the world to her and sadly predeceased her. She also spent a lot of time caring for her sister Kathy prior to her death.

Maryellen is survived by her 2 daughters, Jessica Wilson and her husband, Ian of Charlton, Allison Smith and her partner, Brandon Holden of Leominster; 2 sisters, Carol Johnson and her husband, Peter of Stow, Donna Edmonds and her husband, Danny of Warwick, RI; and 2 grandchildren, Oliver and Aurora Wilson. Besides her parents, she is predeceased by her husband, Glenn I. Smith; her daughter, Melanie Smith; her brother, John Villnave; and her sister, Kathleen Bavosi.

A church service will be held on May 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. George Catholic Church, 40 Brattle Street, Worcester, MA. Following the church service, a burial will take place at 11:30 at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. George Catholic Church.

To share a message or offer condolences, please visit her guestbook at the church.