Obituaries

Leonard Smith, age 84, of Ithaca and formerly of Queens, passed away at home on Saturday, February 20, 2010 of natural causes. Leonard was born on July 15, 1925 in New Orleans, LA, the son of the late Ethel and Richard Smith, Sr. Leonard served honorably in the United States Army during WWII. In the late 1940s, he moved to Ithaca with his brother LeRoy Smith. He eventually relocated to New York City, where he worked for many years at Elmhurst Hospital.

Leonard was married to Gertrude "Frenchie" Smith for many years before she passed away from complications of diabetes. He then shared many happy years with his lady friend, Mamie Washington. In his later years, he was actively involved in church and spiritual activities. He recently moved back to Ithaca, where he enjoyed the slower pace of life and relaxed atmosphere. May his spirit rest peacefully with the Lord.

 

He is survived by three siblings, Jesse Hicks of Chicago, IL, Jim Smith of Ithaca, and Richard (Margaret) Smith Jr., of Kingstree, SC; three nieces, Donna Smith of Ithaca, Joyce Rounsaville, and Wanda Jackson, both of Chicago; a nephew, Edward Hicks of Greenville, WI..

 

Friends and family may call Wednesday from 5 - 7 p.m. at the Herson Funeral Home. There will be a prayer service at 6:30p.m. on Wednesday. Burial will be in Frear Memorial Park in the spring of the year due to weather conditions. If desired, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.