Lowell Smith

Lowell Smith, 84, of Pine Hill died on October 22, 2024, in Kingston. Born at home on April 25, 1940, in Pine Hill, he was the son of the late James and Vera Riley Smith Sr. Lowell's life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family, his work, and his community service.

Lowell is survived by his loving wife, Georgie Balcom Smith, with whom he shared countless memories and a beautiful life. He was a devoted father to his son, Orville Smith, and his partner Barbara. He also leaves his brother, Warren Smith, and partner Judy; his sister, Joyce Fischer, and partner Ken. Lowell was predeceased by his infant daughter, Orile Anne, and his brothers, Charlie and Jim Smith. His presence will also be greatly missed by his several nieces and nephews.

A proud graduate of OCS Class of '58, Lowell's professional life was characterized by his strong work ethic and leadership. He held various positions at Belleayre and Windham Ski Centers, A. H. Todd & Sons, and ultimately retired from the NYS Thruway Authority as a Senior Supervisor. His dedication to his work was matched by his commitment to community service. Lowell was involved in the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, served as the former Shandaken Town Constable, Pine Hill Police, and was a board chair and long-time trustee of the Memorial United Methodist Church in Shandaken.

Lowell's sense of civic duty was further exemplified by his active participation in numerous organizations. He was a member of the Pine Hill Water Board, a Republican Committeeman, a patron member of the NRA, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the NYS Fire Chief's Association, and the Ulster County Volunteer Fire Association. As a life member of the Ulster County Fire Advisory Board and the Pine Hill Fire Co #1, Lowell dedicated sixty-six years of service, including seventeen years as Chief, where he served in all the line-officer positions.

An outdoorsman at heart, Lowell loved hunting and fishing, which were among his favorite pastimes. His adventurous spirit led him to enjoy travels to Florida, Texas, California, and Alaska, where he relished in the beauty of nature and the thrill of exploration.

Lowell's life was a testament to the power of community. He wanted to express his gratitude to his 'other family' at the Pine Hill Fire Department, his church family at MUMC, and all the wonderful friends he made over the years. His heartfelt thanks extended to Jane & Ward for their unwavering support and friendship. Lowell's parting message to his community was a reflection of his generous spirit: "I hope you all treat one another as great as you have treated me. It's been a good life!"

A Service to Celebrate the Life of Lowell will be held on Saturday at 11am at the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home 87 Main St. Phoenicia with Pastor Lee Stowe as celebrant.  Friends will be received on Friday from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home.  The family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the Memorial United Methodist Church - Shandaken, or the Pine Hill Fire Dept.  You may share a special memory, condolence, or photo on Lowell's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lowell Smith, please visit our floral store.