Tricia was born Patricia Eleanor Anderson on Nov. 2, 1940, to Roy and Eleanor Anderson. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Minnesota in education and taught for one year in Wisconsin. She went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a masters of nursing administration degree at the University of Wisconsin. Later as a practicing nurse, she continued her education, earning a certification as an adult nurse practitioner and a national certification in menopause – at the time, one of a handful of practitioners in the state. She managed a Cancer Prevention Clinic, a breast cancer screening clinic and a menopause clinic during her time at University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, spending most of her career in women’s health.

Within her health care practice, she witnessed patients who were unable to pay for their care. That led her to long-term volunteerism for organizations that provided financial support to help bridge the gap to care. She was active with Attic Angels Association for more than 15 years, and Orion Family Services, serving on the boards for both organizations.

Tricia was a voracious reader, cook, golfer, and chocolate lover. Memorable physical activity pursuits included being the 1st singles tennis player in high school and in college, and running a marathon at age 65. She loved the outdoors and all things travel. She visited all seven continents, climbed the Great Wall of China and the mountains of Austria. She ate lunch with a Mongolian family in a yurt, and made friends with penguins in Antarctica. Her favorite trip was an African safari. She had special affinity for monarch butterflies, taking interest in their migration cycles, and admired their survival instincts in the face of natural and challenging obstacles.

In 1963, she married Everett Smith and had two children, Kristin and Kevin, traveling with them throughout the United States and South America. She was grandmother to Tristan Smith and step-grandmother to Christine and Drew Morley. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, daughter Kristin (Christopher Morley), son Kevin (Elizabeth) and grandson Tristan Smith; her brother Frank Anderson (Ruth) and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 11:00 am Thursday, May 7, 2026 at the Cress Center, 6021 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705. A celebration of Tricia’s life will begin at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Carbone Cancer Center at the University of Wisconsin—Madison, and the Attic Angels Association Community Fund.

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406