Leroy J. Smith

SMITH – Leroy Joseph, 82, New Germany, died May 13, 2026. Born June 10, 1943, in Johnstown. Preceded in death by parents, Clement and Grace (Maus) Smith; in-laws, John and Mildred (Fern) Stefanik; sister-in-law, Pattie (Criste) Smith, brother-in-law, Charlie Lamer; infant nephew, Stacy Smith; and “Harley buddy,” Hank O’Yaski.

Survived by wife of 61 years, Barbara (Stefanik) Smith, whom he married June 13, 1964; sons, Damian; and Matthew (Chris Albert); grandchildren, Cammy Baer (Logan Hammel) and Lexey, Gracey, and Bella Smith; step granddaughter, Victoria Albert; siblings, Pat (Joann Long); Bernie (Diana Gvozdich); Margie (Melvin Lieb); Herb (Alice Dumm); Janet (Carl Branas); and Linus (Karen Miller-Hallman); in-laws, Tom Stefanik (Marianne Sobel); Jim Stefanik (Kathy Hurtack); Carolyn Lamer; and Greg (Sam Mathieson); godchildren, Billy Lentz, Tara (Stefanik) Troy, Carla (Lamer) Minor, Eric Lieb, and Audrey Baer; special “adopted” grandchildren, Alexa Correy and Ashleigh Baer; numerous aunts, nieces and nephews, and cousins; as well as dear friends and neighbors.

Leroy was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, New Germany; graduate of Beaverdale – Wilmore High School, class of 1961; and was a US Army veteran, having served in Korea during the Vietnam War. He worked for the family business, C&C Smith Lumber Company; drove school bus for Kindertran Motors and delivered prescriptions for Forest Hills Pharmacy. He loved the outdoors, hunting, trap shooting, horseback riding; and took great pride in making his own wine. His Harley was an extension of his adventurous spirit, and he knew how to unwind with a good western and a cold beer after a long day. For many years he was the “Hoagie Man” delivering subs for Wilmore and Summerhill Fire Departments. Member of the Laurel Run Rod & Gun Club, Camp Nick, and past member of St. Michael American Legion. Leroy’s legacy as an apheresis donor is defined by his life-saving generosity, having contributed an astonishing 755 units over his lifetime. May we all be inspired to discover ways to give as selflessly as he did. In the roar of engines and the wind’s embrace, let us find solace.

Friends will be received from 1 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc. South Fork.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Father Joseph C. Nale, celebrant.

Military rites by St. Michael American Legion Post 551.

Special thanks to the wonderful nurses and aides of 365 Hospice.