On Monday, March 10, students were informed of staff member Denise Smith’s passing. Smith was a beloved member of the dining team and dedicated 22 years of her life to working at Villanova as a team member in Dougherty Hall.
Smith was known for her commitment and dedication, and left an impression on all who knew her.
Villanova Dining issued a statement on Instagram to inform the community of the news, and also alerted the University to possible changes in dining times as a result.
“As we mourn a member of our community, some service times may be impacted today,” the statement said. “We appreciate your patience and understanding during this difficult time.”
Smith’s commitment to her work was incredibly recognizable and her absence will be felt by fellow faculty members as well as students.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our colleague, Denise Smith, “the statement said. “Her presence will be greatly missed throughout dining services.”
Manager of Dougherty Hall and friend of Smith, Michael O’Malley, shared his memories of Smith.
“When Denise started, she took a position I actually applied for,” O’Malley said. “When she started out, she was kind of strict. She wanted to make a name for herself.”
Smith had been at the University for a while prior to applying for a managerial position, and was well known for her hard work throughout the building.
Both O’Malley and Smith initially came to know each other through applying for the same position, which Smith ultimately earned. Despite this, however, O’Malley described how their friendship, born from such unique circumstances, only grew from there.
“Over the course of time, she kind of lightened up,” O’Malley said. “She had this larger than life attitude, and everyone wanted to do well for her.”
Smith’s dedication to her work and relationships with fellow faculty members was palpable. Because of these skills, “she got results,” according to O’Malley.
O’Malley went on to describe the honest and loving friendship between the two that developed, emphasizing how much respect and love he had for her.
“She became a friend and someone that I could rely on and lean on,” O’Malley said. “I had the utmost respect for her and the ultimate kind of love a friend could have.”
O’Malley shared that when he heard the unfortunate news of Smith’s passing, he was both devastated and shocked, as were his coworkers.
“I still cry about it,” O’Malley said.
The loss of Smith was heavily felt in Dougherty Hall, as her fellow staff members continue to mourn the loss of their co-worker and friend.
Smith’s long history working with dining and valuable relationships with her coworkers have left a lasting mark at the University. From initially running a strict and tight ship, to ultimately opening up a bit more to her co-workers, Smith was an incredible co-worker and friend, and so many looked up to her.
Her undeniable commitment and incredibly strong work ethic allowed her to succeed in her work, which she took great pride in. Smith will be missed by the many she influenced, and the University will forever feel her impact.
