Gail Smiecinski

Gail Smiecinski, 62, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 at Preakness Healthcare Center in Wayne, NJ. Gail was born on January 9th, 1963 in Providence, RI, beloved daughter to Robert J. Richard, Sr. and Gail (Douglas) Richard.

Gail was preceded in death by her partner, David Boyle; her father, Robert J. Richard, Sr.; and her daughter, Regis Smiecinski.

Gail spent much of her childhood moving around to different areas of the country, including Terre Haute, IN and Baton Rouge, LA, before her family finally came to rest in Far Hills, NJ. Throughout her youth she engaged in a myriad of outdoor hobbies, including horseback riding, off-road dirt biking, and hiking. She also spent her free time learning to play the cello.

Graduating from Bernards High School in Bernardsville, NJ in 1980, Gail went on to work an assortment of different jobs, including bus driver, deli clerk, and accounts receivable for her own father's business; however, there was no job she loved more than being a stay-at-home mom and wife for her family. Gail married her former husband Mark Smiecinski in September 1983. They lived together in Cedar Knolls, NJ for 20 years with their two daughters, Regis and Katherine.

Due to the advanced progression of her multiple sclerosis (MS), Gail was moved into a nursing home full-time at the age of 39, spending most of the remainder of her life in Preakness Healthcare Center in Wayne, NJ. Despite these hardships, however, Gail flourished from the life she was presented with. In 2010, she met fellow MS patient David Boyle. The two quickly became friends and before long, that friendship blossomed into romance. They were inseparable; wherever one was, the other wasn’t far behind. They spent 10 beautiful years together before David's passing in 2020. She became a pillar within her nursing home community, serving for several years as president of the Resident Council where she helped organize activities and outings for her fellow residents, such as bingo and trips to local shops. She was extremely active in the Church community as well, her faith serving as a great source of strength and comfort for her.

Gail is survived by her daughter, Katherine Smiecinski; her grandchildren, Genevieve, Bobby, and Clifford; her mother, Gail Richard; her stepmother, Marlene Richard; her sister, Debra (Richard) Manahan; her brother, Robert Richard, Jr.; her stepsister, Kellie Piekarsky; her half-sister, Hillary Richard; and several nieces and nephews.

Gail was a bright light in the lives of all who met her. Her quick wit and kind heart gained her fast friends everywhere she went. She will be missed by many and replaced by none.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the MS Society in Gail's name.