Obituary of Kenneth C. Smith
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kenneth "Kenny" C. Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and dedicated community member.
Kenny passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the age of 92, in Rexford, NY, after a life filled with service, love, and unwavering commitment to those around him. Born on June 5, 1932, in Delhi, NY, to W. Roy Smith and Isabelle (née Chambers) Smith, Kenny embodied the spirit of hard work and dedication from a young age.
After graduating from Stamford High School, he bravely served his country as a Sergeant in the Marine Corps during the Korean War, where he was wounded in action and awarded the Purple Heart for his sacrifice and valor. Upon returning home, Kenny dedicated 35 years to NYSE&G, starting in Walton, NY, in 1952 and rising through the ranks to Chief Lineman, retiring in 1987.
He found joy and solace in the simple pleasures of life: golfing, bowling, fishing, fixing things around the house, and embarking on countless adventures in his RV with his beloved wife, Marie.
For 20 years after his retirement, Kenny reveled in his role as head usher for the Minnesota Twins spring training, a testament to his lifelong love of baseball.
Kenny's heart belonged to his community in Windham, where he actively served as a member of the Windham Hose Co. for decades, holding positions as President, Fire Chief, and Fire Commissioner.
He was a guiding force in the Boy Scouts, a dedicated Little League coach, a trustee of the Windham Community Church, a charter member of the Rotary Club, and a councilman of the Windham Town Board. His commitment to Windham was unwavering, and his impact on the lives of its residents was immeasurable.
Kenny's love story with his wife, Marie, spanned 72 beautiful years. He is survived by Marie, his sons Steven (Rhonda) Smith and Mark (Kelly) Smith, his daughter Laurie S. Cramer, his four granddaughters, four grandsons, and eight cherished great-grandchildren.
He is predeceased by his siblings, Betty Graver, Dottie Mc Cue, and Robert Smith, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Kenny's memory to the Windham V.F.W. Veterans of Foreign Wars, 5565 Route 23, Windham, NY 12496, to honor his service and dedication to his fellow veterans.
A military honors interment will be held at a later date at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, where Kenny will be laid to rest with the dignity and respect he so rightfully earned.
Kenny's legacy of service, love, and dedication will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to us all. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.deckerfh.com.