Edward H. Smith

Edward “Smitty” H. Smith, 80 of Groton New York died in expectantly, October 16, 2021 at Guthrie Cortland medical center after becoming ill at home.

Born September 3, 1941 in Cortland, NY, He was the son of the late Edward and Florence Knapp Smith.

Having grown up in the area he had worked as a teenager at a farm in Groton where he had met his future wife, Mary Ann Batzer.

Farming was followed by employment at the Rounsville feed company in Groton and eventually he became employed with the Groton Village DPW. Working the various positions within the department he became the head of the electrical department and after 42 years he retired.

During that period following up until recent years due to health concerns, he was extremely active and dedicated to the Groton fire department for over 60 years. He was a member of the Hook and Ladder Company He was a force to be reckon with and his leader ship was valued. He served three times as their commanding chief and was often asked for advice from various chiefs.

Ed had enjoyed in his earlier years hunting and snowmobiling but his best times were spent with his family, enjoying his grandchildren.

Ed is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Mary Ann Batzer Smith at home. His children, Michael (Denise) Smith of Groton, Marvin Smith of Rock Hill, South Carolina and Melissa (William) Hudson of Coconut Creek Florida. Six grandchildren and one great granddaughter as well as his siblings, Jim (Nancy) Cargill of West Palm Beach, Florida, Sandra (Al) Reisen of Greeley, PA, and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law Robert Batzer and sister-in-law Veronica Nelli.

Besides his parents he was predeceased by his brother Thomas Smith.

Memorial services with Groton Fire Department honors will be held on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at noon at the Zirbel funeral home, 115 William St. Groton. The family will receive friends 10:00-12:00 prior to the services. Interment at the Groton Rural Cemetery will be at a later date.

Following services a gathering will be held at the Groton fire department to further share memories and stories.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Groton fire department ambulance fund. PO Box 96, Groton NY 13073. (Envelopes provided at the funeral home)

Condolences may be made to Ed‘s guest book at www.zirbelfuneralhome.com.