Carol Ann Smith

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Carol Ann Smith, who departed this life on June 3, 2026 at the age of 85 after a long illness.

Born on December 13, 1940 in Syracuse, New York to Hilda (Young) Umstead and Donald Umstead, Carol lived a life defined by love, strength, generosity, and devotion to her family and friends. She touched the lives of many through her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support of those she loved.

She was the wife of Leonard W. Smith and a devoted mother to Gregory Smith, Jeffry Smith and Laureen (Smith) Doody. She was the cherished grandmother to eleven grandchildren and doting great grandmother to twenty great grandchildren, not to mention the many non-related “kids” who lovingly referred to her as “Nana”. She was immensely proud of her family and regularly stated that “there isn't a throw away in the bunch!” Carol was a treasured friend to many, especially her dear friend, Bev.

Carol found joy in spending time with her family and church family. She loved to travel and was always up for a road trip to watch her grandchildren play sports and other activities. She would endure any kind of weather to show her support. One of her favorite activities was going out to eat. In her younger years, Carol enjoyed many eclectic interests from riding motorcycles with friends, coaching Pop Warner football, owning a beauty salon, raising horses and show rabbits to being a Mary Kay beauty consultant, where she proudly earned the use of two cars.

Carol never turned away a teenager or animal in need of a home. She was loving but firm, enforcing healthy boundaries. One rule that was enforced on the farm was “If you don't work, you don't eat”. Some had to learn that lesson the hard way (you know who you are). Carol was an amazing cook so no one wanted to miss out on one of her meals. She had a way of making everyone around her feel valued and loved.

She will be remembered for her compassion, faith, resilience, generosity, humor and we cannot forget her fashion sense! Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the lessons she taught, the love and unconditional encouragement she gave so freely. There are many who are where they are today because she never gave up on them.

She is survived by her children: Gregory (Barbara) Smith, Mary (Smith) Douglas, and Laureen (Leo) Doody. Her grandchildren: Sarah (Joe) Trovato, Rachel (Mike) Gwynn, Jeffrey (Chelsea) Smith, Danielle (Tim) Cavaliere, Andrew (Samantha) Smith, Shannon (Dean) Hantzidiamantis, Leo III (Marga) Doody, Nathan (Anetxy Barnes) Doody, Tessa Doody, Gabrielle Doody and Luke Doody. Great grandchildren: Michael, Madison and Charlotte Gwynn, Ava and Max Trovato, Gregory, Vincent, Luciana and Elliana Cavaliere, Cami, Wayne, Rosie, Lenny, Grace and Mia Smith, Myles Cowan, Christos and Nikolas Hantzidiamantis, Lincoln Goddard and Leo Doody IV, along with many nieces and nephews. Carol was predeceased by her husband, Leonard, son, Jeffry and sister, Sharon Smyth.

Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of CNY for their loving care over the past 18 months, especially: Patti, Naomi, Pastor Mike, Diane and Mary Ann. Your support was invaluable.

A celebration of life will be held on July 18 at 11:00 am at Faith Chapel, 4113 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse, NY 13215. Carol requested that everyone wear bright colors.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort in the memories we shared and the enduring impact of her life. She is no longer in pain, but rejoicing in heaven with her Lord. Her unwavering faith was an inspiration to all who knew her. Her trust in God never failed, even through months of suffering. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

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