Mr. Larry Smith, Sr.

A TIME TO BE BORN 

The life of LARRY SMITH began on October 4, 1951. He was born to Maxine Smith in Gould, Arkansas and was the first of eight children. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, mother, one sister, Katherine Mattz; three brothers,Johnny Mattz, Tommy Mattz, and Robert Mattz; and one daughter, Tracy Gregory. 

A TIME TO LEARN AND LIVE 

Larry was educated in the St. Louis, Missouri Public School system. He attended Harrison Elementary School and Beaumont High School. Later in life he moved to Chicago, Illinois where he received further tutelage and apprenticeships at a carpentry trade school. From there he joined the Carpenter's Union and began his career in carpentry and construction. Larry worked on multi-million-dollar construction projects including the renovation of the Gateway Foundation facility in Lake Villa, Chicago. He was recognized as an expert in his trade receiving many accolades and numerous awards. Eventually, Larry retired from his profession and moved back to St. Louis, Missouri. 

A TIME TO LOVE 

Larry met Doncella "Dot" Gregory and they married August 7, 1993. They shared 13 years of holy matrimony and a blended family of six children. They remained close friends and were always there for each other. 

Larry had an infectious smile, big laugh and enjoyed life. He was a hard worker and believed in finishing what he started. You could always count on his support. He loved his family dearly and filled most of his days around his grandchildren. 

A TIME TO DIE 

Larry went to receive his award on Sunday, March 21, 2021. A beautiful, well-spent life ended when he heard the Lord in that all so familiar voice saying "Well done. Come with me." Hearing the call, he whispered softly, "Let the memories of me be happy ones with a glow of smiles, because my life here is done and I AM FREE." 

Larry leaves to cherish his memories two sons: Larry Smith, Jr. and Lamar Smith, both of St. Louis, MO; a daughter, Dorcea Gregory, Atlanta, GA; two grandchildren, Cameron Smith and Lawrence Smith, both of St. Louis, MO; one brother,James Mattz (Carolyn), St. Louis, MO; two sisters, Marie Lamar and Kimberly Jones, both of St. Louis, MO; two aunts, Ruby J. Mayweather, St. Louis, MO and Betty Williams (Sylvester), Compton, CA; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

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