Jane M. (Smith) Reale

Jane S. Reale, age 98 formerly of Manchester, died peacefully at Azalea Estates in Chapel Hill, NC, on February 7, 2021.  A spirited and cheerful soul was welcomed into heaven.  She was born in Hartford, CT on December 14, 1922 to the late Leo and Ida (Holehouse) Smith.  She was predeceased by her husband of 46 years, Enrico (Sonny) Reale. Jane and Sonny were married on June 3, 1946 in Hartford, CT and lived together in the Manchester area all their lives.

Jane was loved by family, friends and neighbors for her indomitable spirit, her sense of humor and her cheerful personality.  She participated in the life of the neighborhood teeming with families and small children, befriending neighbors and children alike.  Jane was also a member of the group known as the “Mother’s Circle” who supported and entertained each other throughout the years. In addition, Sonny and Jane traveled with a group of friends for years. Their favorite was a group trip to Europe that left them with many memories and stories to tell.

Jane moved to North Carolina just before her 90th year to be near her oldest daughter. She lived in an Independent Living community nearby. She was cheerful, active and helpful to the residents there. Jane made many friends and was the first one to participate in dances, classes and field trips. It was there that she met Bill Mitchell, a devoted companion and friend until his passing in October of 2019.

In addition to her husband, Jane was predeceased by her brother William Smith and sister Mary Smith Murphy. 

She is survived by her daughters Jean Taylor of Chapel Hill NC, Barbara Benjamin (Robert) of Topsfield MA and Ann Kowalchuk of Massena, NY along with her son William F. Reale of Coventry, CT. 

Jane leaves four grandchildren, Julie Hall (Joshua) of Charleston, SC; Jay Taylor of Nashville, TN; Evan Benjamin of Topsfield, MA; and Taylor Benjamin (Katherine) of Carlisle, MA.

Jane also leaves six great grandchildren; Harrison Taylor, Logan Hall, Courtney Hall, Ryder Benjamin, Samantha Benjamin and Conrad Benjamin.

Jane is also survived by many nieces, nephews and good friends in Connecticut and elsewhere.

 The family wishes to give a special thanks to Lavasia Adams for her years of love, care and friendship to our mother, and to the staff of A Plus Healthcare and Affordable Healthcare for their excellent care and personal concern for Jane’e welfare.

Donations may be made in Jane’s honor to a food bank of your choice. To leave a memory or message of condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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