Avril Judson Smolinski, of Fort Myers, FL (formerly of North Grafton, MA) passed in the early hours on Thursday, February 22, 2018, after a long, courageous battle with breast cancer.
Avril is survived by her loving children, daughter Alison L. Wilson, son James Smolinski and his wife Kierstin, and daughter Elizabeth Beshai and her husband Frank, and her beloved grandchildren whom she adored, Delaney and Brady Smolinski, and Delaney Beshai, all of North Grafton, MA. She leaves her life partner of 14 years, Felix LLamido, MD, of Fort Myers, with whom she lived, his children Michael, Kevin and Elisa, and his grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Eric Judson and his wife Carol of Naples, FL, and her sister Sue Graves and husband Hal of Sebring, FL, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Alfred Burnell Judson and Beryl (Clark) Judson, her sister Marilyn (Judson) Ladd, and her oldest grandson, Joey Wilson, whom she missed dearly since his passing in 2010.
Avril was born in Cazenovia, NY, and grew up in New Woodstock, NY. She graduated from Cazenovia High School, then attended Elmira College, and later earned her bachelor’s degree from UMass-Amherst. She moved to North Grafton in 1971 and raised her family here.
She was a longtime member of the Grafton School Committee, the League of Women Voters, served on the Zoning Board of Appeals, and was a library trustee. She enjoyed camping, cross country skiing, the outdoors, and time at Lake Arrowhead in Maine with family and close friends. She worked for many years at UMass Medical Center, especially enjoying her time working in pediatrics. Avril retired early in 2003 to move to Pelican Preserve in Fort Myers, where she soon met the love of her life, Felix. Together, they traveled the world, visiting many countries on several continents, and also traveled extensively throughout the U.S. She was very active before her diagnosis, enjoying golf, tennis, and Mah Jongg.
Avril was a devoted mother and grandmother. She was vibrant and vivacious, and joyous to be around. She was a kind, loving woman who was at her happiest when spending time with her family and many friends. She had a beautiful smile which she was known for highlighting with her signature red lipstick. She will be deeply missed by all, but especially her family.
All are welcome to gather with Avril’s family and friends Friday, March 2nd from 4pm to 7pm at Roney Funeral Home, 152 Worcester Street, North Grafton MA 01536. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 3rd at 11:00 am at the Congregational Church of Grafton, 30 Grafton Common, Grafton, MA 01519. Burial will be private at Pine Grove Cemetery in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Avril to support cancer research and patient care at:
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
P.O. Box 849168
Boston, MA 02284
or via www.dana-farber.org/gift.