Lawrence Smith

Lawrence Miller Smith, age 87, of Buckley passed away on Friday, June 10, 2022 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He was born on November 5, 1934 in Ulysses, Kansas to Howard W. and Elsie J. (Miller) Smith.

Larry and his family moved to Manton, Michigan where he graduated from high school in 1952. He served in the United States Navy from August 1952 to June 1954 during the Korean Conflict. Larry then graduated with a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Western Michigan University. He enjoyed a long career as a Rehabilitation Senior Counselor for the State of Michigan in Traverse City. On September 15, 1984, Larry married his beloved wife Mary Gwen Davis at the First Congregational Church in Traverse City.

After retiring, Larry and Mary enjoyed spending summers in Buckley and winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Larry loved golf and would be found on the golf course with Mary several times a week. He also enjoyed long walks in the woods and on the beach. He was always entertained by his grandchildren’s activities and shenanigans. Larry was also an avid reader and was a crossword puzzle whiz. In his earlier years, Larry had many other interests. He “tinkered” with car repair, bowled in a bowling league, and learned how to make custom golf clubs.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Mary Smith; stepchildren, Steve Davis, Katie Davis, Kerry (Steve) Cox and John Davis; grandchildren, Lynn (Alex) Mouthaan, Emerson Cox, Kohen Davis, Kareen Smith, and Kelvin Smith; sisters, Patricia Joaquin and Nancy Smith; and brother, Stephen Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sons, Michael Smith and Jerry Smith; sister, Suzanne Smith; and stepdaughter-in-law, Cynthia Davis.

There will be a private celebration of life for Larry on Saturday, June 25th. Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Michigan.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more.