By Joan F. Simoneau, Contributing Writer
Marlborough/Hudson – Family, friends and community members who know Pauline Smith through the many committees, boards and other volunteer groups she has served on honored her at a surprise “Roast and Toast” in observance of her 80th birthday June 30 at the Masonic Hall in Marlborough.
Born and raised in Marlborough, where she raised her family, Smith now resides in Hudson.
Master of ceremonies for the event, Bob Kane, praised Smith for her many years of community service.
“I have known Pauline since the late 1970s and she has always been there to help in any way she could,” he said. “She volunteered for many Marlborough Cultural Affairs events, the annual Labor Day Festival, the community theater group, where she performed and helped with makeup, and at the present time she is helping with many Historical Society events.”
Smith's latest passion is being a member of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP).? In September 2011, she was recruited by her grandson, Cadet Ken Palardy to join. Smith said she had always dreamed of being a member of the CAP and is enjoying her special duties as public affairs officer and recruiting/retention officer. Several fellow CAP members attended the party and wished her well.
Joining Kane at the podium were Smith's children, Tom Smith, Patty Munger and Jackie Smith who praised their mother for her dedication to helping others. Her son Walter Smith passed away in September 2012.
Others singing her praises, with an element of humor, were State Rep. Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough), Susanne Morreale Leeber, president and CEO of the Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce, community leader Bob Kays, and her grandson Ron.
Entertainment included a performance by Tony Funches, a former lead singer for The Platters.