Harold Smith

Harold Smith passed away on May 17, 2015 in his home.  Harold was born June 3, 1929 in Middletown, NY to Harold and Myrtie Smith.  He graduated from St. John’s Academy in Plattsburgh, NY.  He served in the US Navy from 1947 to 1950.  Upon discharge he continued his education at various colleges in New York State.  He entered into the NYS Dept. of Corrections in 1952.  He worked in ten different correctional facilities.  He came to Attica in 1972 and became Superintendent in 1973.  He worked there until 1984 when he transferred to Wyoming Correctional Facility.  He retired as Superintendent of Wyoming Correctional Facility, concluding a 35 year career that included restoring stability at Attica Correctional Facility after the 1971 riot. 

Harold served as an original member of the Buffalo Diocese Peace and Justice Committee which was devoted to social justice.  He was a parishioner of St. Joachim and Anne Parish.  He served on the Parish council, served as a lector, and also a bingo worker.  Harold received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal issued by Pope John Paul II in 1987.  The award was presented by the Rev. Edward D. Head, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo.  The medal was bestowed in recognition for work as an outstanding Catholic leader.  Harold was the first Superintendent in the history of New York State to be given this honor.

Harold was a big supporter of the Stevens Memorial Library.  He served for many years on the Library Board.  He was a long time member of the Attica Golf Club, also a member of the Attica Lions Club, and the Harder O’ Donnell American Legion. He was a VA volunteer in Batavia, NY for many years. Harold enjoyed all types of sports especially golf along with skiing and bowling in his younger years.  He enjoyed his retirement, traveling and spending winters in St. Augustine, Florida.  What he enjoyed most was his family and was happiest when they could all get together.

Harold is survived by his wife, Betty Smith, of 61 years, a son Scott (Diane) of Attica, a son Craig (Lisa) Bloomingdale, NY and a deceased son, Jeffrey (Barbara) in 2002.  Also, surviving is a sister, Karen Wyatt of Lawrenceburg, IN and a brother- in-law, Ed Spangenberg, Port Jervis, NY.  Six grandchildren; Jennifer, Stephanie (Eric), Christopher, Amee (Nick), Justin, and Kaitlyn.  Four great-grandchildren; Owen, Landon, Gavin, and Ali.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2015 from 4PM -8PM at the Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main St. Attica, New York 14011. A 10:00AM Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Joachim & Anne Parish 50 East Ave. in Attica on Thursday May 21^st.

He bequeathed his body to the University at Buffalo’s Anatomical Gift Program.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Stevens Memorial Library 146 Main St. Attica, NY 14011 or Wyoming County Hospice 450 N. Main St. Warsaw, NY 14569. For more information please call (585) 591-1212 or to leave a message of condolence please visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com   Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main St. Attica, New York 14011.