Lawrence Alan Smith's Obituary
Lawrence Alan Smith (Larry) passed away on May 5, 2026, at home in Lewes, DE. He was the son of Ralph and Mary Lou Smith. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Katherine Jarvis Smith (Kathy); children Zachary, Julia Ruiz (Mark), and Jacob; and two granddaughters, Sydney Smith and Leila Ruiz. He also leaves behind his sisters, Jo Ann Stoddard, Terri Kennedy, and Lorraine Chase (Melvin); brothers Robby Smith (Liz) and Kevin Smith; brother-in-law Mark Jarvis (Anne); and sisters-in-law Marianne Jarvis, Julie Myers (Larry), Sue DiCocco, and Beth Redmond (Randy), as well as 15 nephews and nieces and many, many cousins.
Larry was born in Washington, D.C., and grew up in Hyattsville, MD, running the streets with his many friends from St. Jerome’s and Northwestern High School. He and Kathy attended school together beginning in first grade and later bought a house in Hyattsville, where they lived and raised their family for 37 years. As a carpenter, Larry did much custom work on the many historical homes in Hyattsville. Upon retirement, Larry and Kathy moved to Lewes, DE, where he then turned their old bungalow into their dream beach home.
Larry was a man of many interests, loving cycling, camping, fishing, sailing, and — most of all — cooking. He was at his happiest preparing elaborate meals for his extended family and circle of friends until the house was filled with food, laughter, and flour flying through the air.
As one of his nephews recently said, Larry was the coolest guy he’d ever known, wearing his black beret with panache anytime, anywhere. But more importantly, he was a steadfast and loyal husband, father, and friend who will be missed by many.
Please sign the tribute wall located on this website.
What’s your fondest memory of Lawrence?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lawrence?
Share a story where Lawrence's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lawrence you’ll never forget.
How did Lawrence make you smile?