Roberta "Bobbie" Keim Smith

Roberta “Bobbie” Keim Smith passed away peacefully on September 8, 2023 at the age of 75.  Bobbie spent her last days surrounded by her husband and children.

Bobbie is survived by her husband of 54 years, Jerome “Jerry” Smith, her loving children:  Michael Smith, Meghan Donlon (Thomas), Jeffrey Smith (Frances), Emily Treske (Scott), Jeremy Smith (Kelly), and Katie O’Connor (Matthew), the luckiest grandchildren in the world: Joshua and Madilyn Donlon, Brady and Payton Smith, Miles and Lucas Treske, Emma, Owen, Annabelle, and Cooper Smith, and Liam, Griffin, and Findley O’Connor, her siblings Kathy Meko (James), Jeanne Phillips (Carmen), Mary Alice Glowacki (Robert), Anthony Keim (Ginny), and Martha Keim, as well as countless in-laws, nieces, and nephews that she loved dearly.  She is predeceased by her parents Robert and Catherine Keim and her brother Francis Keim (Barbara).  

Born in Erie, Pennsylvania on November 26, 1947, Bobbie grew up in a house filled with love and activity.  Bobbie would often describe her parents as the kindest and most generous people she knew, traits that were clearly passed on to her.  She had a close relationship with all her siblings and would often regale her kids with stories about childhood adventures with her sisters and summers spent at Findley Lake. She smiled fondly when she talked about her years at Villa Marie Academy and Mercyhurst College.

Life became even more exciting when she met Jerry in the summer of 1965.  The two married in August 1969 and moved to Delaware, where they would go on to raise their six children. Bobbie and Jerry partnered to impart the importance of faith and service to each of their children.

Bobbie had several jobs throughout her life, but none were more impressive than her role as mother.  Bobbie had remarkable patience for the antics that ensued at her house. Her unending support was always felt from the sidelines at sporting events, pride in her children’s personal accomplishments, and words of wisdom when they were needed the most.  As her children grew, she transitioned from disciplinarian to friend and relished watching the deep bonds her children built with each other through love and laughter.  

Nothing compared to the joy and pride Bobbie derived from her grandchildren.  She was quick to share their latest funny anecdote or personal achievement to anyone who would listen.  Her grandkids equally adored their grandma, cherishing their time spent with her, hearing her cheer them on from the sidelines, recapping their days with her on the front porch of the beach house, or being wrapped in a warm hug and loving smile.  Each grandchild was able to develop a special bond with Bobbie that left them feeling like her favorite.

Anyone who knew Bobbie would often describe her as one of the nicest people they ever met.  Bobbie greeted every person she met with a smile and open heart.  She maintained her close relationship with her siblings, often having hour-long conversations with her sisters each week.  Her thoughtful, generous spirit extended to her nieces and nephews and “Aunt Bobbie” holds a special place in each of their hearts.  Friends were the beneficiary of her great listening ear, understanding nature, and unending kindness.  A member of St. Mary the Assumption Parish, Bobbie’s deep faith and Christian values shaped everything she did.  

Her resolve to fight the many hardships that faced her after her kidney transplant in 2022 were a testament to Bobbie’s incomparable strength.  She rarely complained and instead chose to focus on appreciating her many blessings.  

Her passing leaves those who knew her with a tremendous sadness because she was loved so deeply.  

Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, September 14th, 2023 from 4PM-7PM at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd., Wilmington, DE. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Bobbie on Friday, September 15th, 2023 at 10AM at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 7200 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE. Interment will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery - Ashland, 1528 Ashland Clinton School Rd., Hockessin, DE.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association or National Kidney Foundation.  

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