Laura Jean Smith

Laura Jean (Parker) Smith, 91, of Cortland, NY, and formerly of Pitcher, NY, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2020, at the Cortland Regional Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Cortland, NY, while surrounded by her family.

Born in Cortland, NY, on November 1, 1928, Laura was the daughter of the late Ross and Reva Conrad Parker.  She was a 1946 graduate of Marathon Central School.  She attended Cortland Business School.  On August 30, 1947 she married Raymond C. Smith of Union Valley, NY. They raised their family on a dairy farm in Pitcher Springs.   

Laura was involved in, and held many positions with various organizations, including the Cincinnatus Fire Department Auxiliary, the Cincinnatus Area Heritage Society, the Taylor Rural Cemetery Association, and the Friendship House.  She volunteered for the Cortland County Board of Elections.  She served as vice president of the Cortland County Fire Company Auxiliary.  She was treasurer of the Cincinnatus Fire Department July 4th Celebration Committee and actively volunteered at the annual Memorial Day Dinner to benefit the Taylor Rural Cemetery.  Laura was an avid bowler, enjoyed reading, and was the “Queen” of the crossword puzzle.

For generations, Laura was the matriarch of her family.  Many looked to her for extended family history.  Relationships were important and maximizing time with family & friends were her top priorities. Our hearts are broken.  She is at peace.

She is survived by her daughters, Karol (Gary) Wood of Shawnee, OK; Kai (David) Loomis of N. Pitcher; Kelly (Rob) Goff of Cincinnatus; and a son, Kris Smith of Pitcher Springs.  She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Nichelle Langone, Dana (Charles) Holley, Robert Alt, Michael Loomis, Lara (Andy) Meade, Kyle (Justine) Lieb; Emily (Justin) McGrain, Jason (Nicole) Smith, Jessica (Andy) Smith; Dustin Goff; and Paula Beckwith.  She had 24 great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law, Ronald (Sherry) Smith of Cincinnatus.  She had several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Also, special friends Bev Bockmier; Lillian, Alice, Tine, and many friends at the Friendship House.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Raymond C. Smith; a daughter, Karen Smith Alt; a grandson, Corey James Beckwith; and siblings, Emma Windsor, Arvine B.Parker, and Hugh R. Parker.

Sadly, due to current circumstances there will be no formal calling hours or funeral service.  A graveside service will be held at the Taylor Rural Cemetery, Cincinnatus, NY, on Sunday, November 1, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. with Jeanne Angell officiating.  NY State Covid-19 guidelines will be followed.  Masks must be worn and social distancing will be in place.  A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring of 2021.  Expressions of sympathy in memory of Laura may be directed to the Taylor Rural Cemetery, the Cincinnatus Area Heritage Society, or the Cincinnatus Fire Department Auxiliary.