Larry L Smith

Lauritz “Larry” Smith, born on August 23, 1946, and died on May 5, 2026, lived a life that was full of laughter, loyalty, and the kind of steady love that held a family together through every season. Larry was funny, loving, and unforgettable.

He is survived by his children Tammy, Todd (Michele), Tim (Kristin), his grandchildren Samantha, Justin, Michael, Brianna, Joshua (Maddison), Alyssa, and Tyler, his 16 great-grandchildren, his 1 great-great-grandchild, and his siblings Emil and Vernielle as well as nieces, nephews and other family members. His family was the center of his world, and he gave them his time, his attention, and his unmistakable brand of love, which usually came with a joke and a grin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Esther (Bucholz) Smith, his wife Joyce in 2008, his great-grandson Javari, his sister Margaret, his nephew Ed, and his sister-in-law Joanne.

Larry worked at Allen Bradley for more than 30 years until retirement, and after that he kept right on serving his community by working as a local high school janitor. He was the kind of man who believed in showing up, doing the job, and doing it well, whether he was on the factory floor or keeping a school running smoothly. He also served honorably in the United States Army with the 101st Airborne during the Vietnam era, a chapter of his life that reflected his courage, discipline, and commitment to something bigger than himself. Larry did not brag much, but his service spoke loudly enough for him. He had the kind of strength that did not need a spotlight, although he certainly could have stolen one if he wanted to.

At home, Larry was a devoted family man who coached his children in their sports and made sure he had perfect attendance at practices and games. He was there for the wins, the losses, the muddy shoes, and the early mornings, because that was what mattered to him. His support was steady and genuine, and his family never had to wonder where he stood. He watched over his neighborhood with a careful eye, not in a nosy way, but in the way of someone who noticed everything and cared enough to keep an eye out. If something was out of place, Larry knew it.

Larry had a great sense of humor, and it was one of his finest gifts. He was the kind of man who could make a simple conversation feel like a highlight reel, and he knew how to land a joke without ever needing to force it. He enjoyed watching old westerns, sports, and the news, and he read the newspaper every day, because he believed in staying informed and probably also believed that a good headline was worth a second look. He appreciated the familiar rhythm of daily life, and he found comfort in the things that connected him to the world and to the people around him.

Visitation at the MAX A. SASS GREENRIDGE CHAPEL (4747 S. 60th St., Greenfield) on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:30 AM. Burial will take place in St. Adalbert Cemetery, Milwaukee. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.