Patricia Janet Smith-Lennon

In Loving Memory of Patricia “Pat” Smith-Lennon

Patricia Smith-Lennon, 65, of New Haven, Connecticut, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, October 8, 2026, after a brief illness. She passed away at home, as she wished.

Affectionately known as “Pat,” Patricia was born in New Haven to Jake Jefferson and Thelma Johnson. She graduated from Wilbur Cross High School in 1980 and continued her education at business school, earning her certification as a keypunch operator. She went on to work at Yale New Haven Hospital for 26 years, retiring as a medical technician.

Pat found joy in music, morning walks, and cooking for those she loved—especially making Malachi’s favorite chicken and mac and cheese. She loved cleaning while music played, particularly her favorite song, “Put That Woman First” by Jaheim.

Whenever Pat saw her son-in-law, Keith, she would ask him to make her a Jaheim CD. As technology changed, her family introduced her to downloading music, but the calls for help continued. Shameka would lovingly respond, “Mommyyyyy, again?” The two would laugh together, and Shameka would help her once more. Those moments of laughter are memories her family will always treasure.

Pat knew how to get the party started, whether at home or out dancing with friends. Among her cherished friends, whom she considered sisters, were Ms. Stella Williams, Mrs. Evangelist Betty Paige, Ms. Deborah Pervis, and Dorice Brown. Together with many other dear friends, they shared music, dancing, and good times.

Pat leaves to cherish her memory: her husband, Richard Lennon, of New Haven, CT; her daughter, Shameka Smith, and her husband, Keith, of Waterbury, CT; her son, Marcus Penn, of New Haven, CT; and her four beautiful grandchildren: Malachi Campbell and Alexia Etheredge, both of West Haven, CT, and Viviana and NuViyah Penn, both of New Haven, CT. She also leaves her sisters, Ernestine Smith and Sheila Smith, both of New Haven, CT; a friend dear to her heart, Brian Douglas, of New Haven, CT; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was predeceased by her mother, Thelma Johnson; her father, Jake Jefferson; her brother, Bernard Anthony Smith; and her son, Michael Johnson.

Pat will be lovingly remembered through the music she enjoyed, the meals she shared, and the laughter she brought to those around her.

A celebration of her life will be announced soon.