Barbara Smits was the former wife of actor Jimmy Smits, who is known for his roles in L.A. Law, NYPD Blue, The West Wing, and Star Wars. She was also a long-time employee of Cornell Cooperative Extension-New York City (CCE-NYC), where she worked for 29 years. She passed away on April 16, 2010, at the age of 54, due to complications of pneumonia. This article will pay tribute to her life and legacy.
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Barbara Smits and Jimmy Smits: A High School Sweetheart Story
Barbara Smits was born on November 27, 1955, in the United States. She met Jimmy Smits when they were both attending Ithaca Campus in 1969. They started dating and got engaged in 1981. They tied the knot in the same year in a private ceremony. They had two children together, a daughter named Taina Smits and a son named Joaquin Smits.
Barbara Smits supported her husband’s acting career, which took off in the 1980s with his breakthrough role as Victor Sifuentes in L.A. Law. She also pursued her own career at CCE-NYC, where she started as a 4-H Program staff and later became the assistant to the executive director.
However, their marriage was not without challenges, as Jimmy Smits was often away from home and involved in other relationships. They decided to end their marriage in 1987 and divorced amicably. Jimmy Smits later dated actress Wanda De Jesus, whom he is still with today.
Barbara Smits: A Dedicated and Professional Worker
Barbara Smits continued to work at CCE-NYC after her divorce, where she was respected and admired by her colleagues and superiors. She was described as a true professional, who was ever conscious of how CCE-NYC activities reflected upon Cornell University and the Ithaca campus. She was also known for her quick smile, frequent laughter, and generosity of spirit.
Barbara Smits was involved in various projects and programs at CCE-NYC, such as the Environmental Issues Program Area, the 4-H Youth Development Program, and the Nutrition and Health Program. She was also instrumental in organizing events, workshops, and conferences for CCE-NYC staff and partners.
Barbara Smits was a loyal and dedicated employee, who worked at CCE-NYC for almost three decades. She was both the glue and the backbone of the organization, according to Donald Tobias, the executive director of CCE-NYC.
Barbara Smits: A Loving and Caring Mother
Barbara Smits was a devoted mother to her two children, Taina and Joaquin. She raised them with love and care, and encouraged them to pursue their passions and dreams. She was also a proud grandmother to her four grandchildren, whom she adored and spoiled.
Taina Smits followed her father’s footsteps and became an actress, writer, and director. She has appeared in several films and TV shows, such as The Sopranos, Law & Order, and The Good Wife. She is also a theatre teacher and runs her own theatre company, The Smits Project.
Joaquin Smits inherited his father’s athletic genes and became a basketball player. He played for the University of Miami and later for the NBA Development League. He is also a businessman and a philanthropist, who supports various causes and charities.
Barbara Smits was very close to her children and grandchildren, and often spent time with them. She was their biggest fan and supporter, and always cheered them on.
Barbara Smits Cause of Death and Funeral
Barbara Smits suffered from pneumonia, a lung infection that made it difficult for her to breathe. After several medical tests, doctors found out that her pneumonia was incurable. She passed away peacefully on April 16, 2010, surrounded by her family and friends.
Barbara Smits was buried in a cemetery in Chicago, where she was born and raised. Her funeral was attended by her loved ones, as well as her former husband Jimmy Smits and his partner Wanda De Jesus. They paid their respects and honored her memory.
Barbara Smits was a remarkable woman, who touched many lives with her kindness, professionalism, and humor. She left behind a legacy of love, service, and excellence. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
