Gene “Lilac” Smith

SCHENECTADY – Gene “Lilac” Smith, 93, passed away on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at the Capital Living Nursing & Rehabilitation Centre in Schenectady, NY.  She was born May 10, 1923 to Harry Mackey and Grace Kelsey in Medusa, NY.  She graduated Greenville Central School in 1941.  She was married to Delos Smith for 44 years who predeceased her in 1989.

Gene was committed to Community Service for most of her life and was awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution Award for Excellence in Community Service on August 15, 1996. Her generosity towards others was shared and received by many.  People will remember her fondly for her passion for “all things purple”.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Sherri Gray and her granddaughter, Sarah Kelsey Gray. Also, her son-in-law, Lance Gray.  Several nieces and nephews – Adrienne (Mackey) Saurer, Kathy Saurer Osborne, Donna Saurer O’Carroll, Liesl Saurer Hoffman, William Saurer Jr., Kevin (Mary) Eufemia, Michael (Nan) Eufemia, Gina Eufemia (John) Esposito, Joann Garry & Charles Tobias.  Also survived by her brother-in-law, Charles Eufemia, her grandson, Carl (Chip) Smith, Jr., and cousin Bill Moore all of whom she loved dearly.

Special recognition to her caregiver, Norma Ronald of Schenectady, NY and her best friend, Marjorie Case, of Medusa NY.

Gene donated her body to Albany Medical College.  A memorial service will be held in the spring, in her hometown of Medusa, NY.  Memorial contributions may be made to:  Medusa Volunteer Fire Company, 28 Co. Rt. 351, Medusa, NY 12120; or to Medusa United Church of Christ, RR1, Box 247, Medusa, NY 12120.  To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .