Model, restaurateur B. Smith dies at 70 following battle with early onset Alzheimer's

Her husband, Dan Gasby, announced her passing on Facebook.

February 23, 2020, 3:29 PM

B. Smith, the model turned lifestyle guru and restaurateur, has died at 70 years old following her battle with early onset Alzheimer's, her husband, Dan Gasby, announced on Sunday.

Barbara Elaine Smith died "peacefully" at the couple's home on Long Island, New York, on Saturday just before 11 p.m., Gasby said.

PHOTO: B. Smith at her restaurant in New York, Feb. 20, 2001.
B. Smith at her restaurant in New York, Feb. 20, 2001.
Barbara Alper/Getty Images

In his post, Gasby thanked the doctor and caregivers who made Smith "comfortable in her final days" in hospice as well as friends and fans who supported the family during their journey with the disease.

"Heaven is shining even brighter now that it is graced with B.'s dazzling and unforgettable smile," Gasby wrote.

PHOTO: B. Smith and Dan Gasby attend the "Barefoot Under the Stars" event at the Wolffer Estate Vineyard, June 25, 2011, in Sagaponack, New York.
B. Smith and Dan Gasby attend the "Barefoot Under the Stars" event at the Wolffer Estate Vineyard, June 25, 2011, in Sagaponack, New York.
Sonia Moskowitz/Getty Images

Smith began her career as a model in the mid-60s and later opened her first restaurant in New York City in 1986. She has also authored three recipe books.

She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a degenerative disease that severely impacts memory and cognitive ability, more than seven years ago.

PHOTO: Congressman Charles Rangel attends B. Smith's party at her restaurant to celebrate her new Discovery Channel TV show.
Congressman Charles Rangel attends B. Smith's party at her restaurant to celebrate her new Discovery Channel TV show.
Corey Sipkin/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images

Last year, Gasby appeared on "The View," opening up on what it was like to be the primary caretaker for someone suffering from Alzheimer's.

Smith is survived by Gasby and their daughter, Dana.