Marie E. (Smith) Burkhart

Southbridge/Putnam...Marie Evelyn (Smith) Burkhart passed away peacefully at her home in the early hours of August 13, 2025, after a short battle with cancer. Her last wish was to remain at home, have her family by her side and go to sleep. Her wish was granted. 

Marie was born on May 4th 1933 in Nashua NH to the late Grace and William Smith. 

She leaves behind her children Clifford Burkhart (partner Edward Ochoa) Las Vegas, Cynthia Monette (husband Joe Monette) Putnam Ct, Cheryl Ortiz (husband Dante Ortiz) Putnam, Ct with whom she lived. She also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. 

She was the eldest of 3. She was predeceased by her sister Elaine Kulingoski and her brother Harrold Smith. 

Marie was familiar with hard work. She took on the challenge of raising her children alone in a time when it was frowned upon. She worked for the American Optical for many years. She was a part time cashier in many area businesses until she became a Home Health Aide. She loved caring for the “old people” until she finally decided it was to retire at the young age of 84. She was an icon of the streets of Southbridge before moving to Putnam with her daughter. Southbridge residents lovingly remember her on her daily walks through town. She would help anyone but was too independent to want help from anyone. 

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Monday, August 25th, 2025, between 9:30AM and 10:30AM at Sansoucy Funeral Home, Marcy Street, Southbridge, MA  with burial to follow in the New Notre Dame Cemetery, 746 N. Woodstock Road, Southbridge, MA.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marie E. (Smith) Burkhart, please visit our floral store.