Obituary of Larry Lee Smith Sr

Larry Lee Smith Sr., of Geneva, New York, passed away peacefully at home on August 1, 2026, from natural causes. He was 61 years old.

Larry was born on August 18, 1964, in Newark, New York, to Murray Smith Sr. and Ella Mae Hill. He graduated from Clyde-Savannah and spent his life building meaningful relationships with the people around him. One of the accomplishments he was most proud of was becoming a homeowner, something that reflected the hard work and stability he valued throughout his life.

If you knew Larry, you knew you could never go anywhere without running into someone he knew. Whether it was the grocery store, a sporting event, or simply driving through town, someone would stop to say hello. He never minded taking a few extra minutes to catch up because making people feel seen came naturally to him. He had a gift for making people laugh, a smile that could brighten your day, and kind eyes that reflected the caring person he truly was. He didn't have to try to be the loudest person in the room to make an impact. Simply being himself was enough.

Family meant everything to Larry. He is survived by his children, Larry Smith Jr. (Brigette), LaKell Smith, Ladonia Smith, Lateafa Smith, Lukesha Wright; his loving partner of 16 years, Kelly Roach; and his cherished grandchildren, Jalen Smith, Lexi Smith, Larry Smith III, Mackenzie Smith, Laila Smith, Cayden Smith, June McKoy, London McKoy, Egypt McKoy, and Dymond Payne; siblings Clarence Jones (brother), Geraldine Rouse (sister), Lorraine Smith (sister), Maybell Smith (sister), Ella Mae Williams (sister), Murray Smith Jr. (brother), Diane Duffus (sister), Robbie Smith (brother). His love for his family was constant, and some of the best memories we have are the ones we shared simply being together.

Predeceased by parents Ella Mae (Hill) and Murray Smth Sr, George (Poppa) Grantling (brother), Daisy Mae Wright (sister).

Larry found joy in life's simple moments. He loved spending time with the people and things that meant the most to him. One of his greatest joys was coaching his son, LaKell, and supporting him both on and off the court. The time they shared through sports created memories that his family will always cherish. Larry also had a special love for animals and always had a soft spot for them. Whether he was going to the casino, watching sports, spending time fishing with his close cousin Tyrone Hill, or watching horse races, he appreciated the simple moments that made life meaningful. He treasured time with his family, and his Christian faith remained an important part of his life, providing him with strength, comfort, and peace throughout his journey.

To know Larry was to know kindness, laughter, and genuine love. He leaves behind memories that will continue to bring smiles, stories that will be told for years to come, and a family that will forever carry his love in their hearts. Although our hearts are broken, we are grateful for every laugh, every conversation, every lesson, and every moment we were blessed to share with him.

Dad, thank you for being our father, our protector, and someone so many people were proud to know. Your laughter, your smile, and the way you made everyone feel welcome are things we will never forget. You may be gone from our sight, but you will never be gone from our hearts.

Larry Lee Smith Sr. will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched. We find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the love he gave so freely. May he rest in eternal peace, and may God continue to comfort all who mourn his passing