Ocala, FL/Livonia, NY: It is with great sadness that the family of Rowland E. Smith (Ronnie) announces his passing on June 2, 2018 at the age of 98.
Ronnie was predeceased by Doris Brennan Smith and is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Phyllis Fischer Smith. He is survived by his children Jo VanDyck and Jane Smith. Ronnie will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren; Jeffrey and Emileigh, Mark and Suzanne and Lisa Chod and his great-grandchildren, Maris, Berkley, Rhett, Collins, and Nolan.
Ronnie actively participated in life. He loved and served his community and country. He was a World War II veteran serving in the US Army from 1940-1945. He was an owner of the Livonia Dairy, a Rotarian, a member of the Methodist Church, the American Legion and the Geneseo Country Club.
Ronnie will be buried with military honors on July 14, 2018 at 3 pm in the Union Cemetery in Livonia, NY. We will celebrate his life at the Livingston County Country Club after the graveside service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Harrison-Lee American Legion Post 283, 3850 Federal Road, Livonia, NY 14487. To send a condolence or share a memory please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
To the Smith family,
How lucky we were to have had such great parents and wonderful childhoods! You are in my thoughts today! Love to you all.
To the family(ies) of Ronnie…how well I remember him through stories my mother (Cora Mae May) told about their foolishness and laughter at LCS – she as a cafeteria worker and him the milkman…somehow there was a bond of silliness that could always brighten both their days. Ronnie was always a generous and understanding light in the town of Livonia. It would appear God is filling his kingdom with kind, gentle, and fun-loving souls this year. May you all find peace in your memories and may your faith and beliefs keep you protected from your sadness.