Mary Katheryn Lacks Smith, 70, passed away on March 9, 2024 after a brief, fierce battle with lymphoma. Roy K Smith (Fine, NY) was her devoted husband of 52 years. They were married on June 19, 1971 in Gouverneur, NY.

Mary was born on September 26, 1953 in Gouverneur, NY. She was the daughter of Katheryn I. (Leonard) and Joseph J. Lacks, and step daughter of Ann E. Lacks

Mary is survived by her husband, Roy; son Matthew L Smith, Michigan; daughter Caitlin A Smith, Jessup, PA; eight grandchildren, Allison, Layla, Lucas, Katie, Emma, James, Carson and Hannah; seven siblings, Charlene H Mullin, Gouverneur, NY; W Joseph Lacks (Kelley), Gouverneur, NY; James Wade (Lacks), Vista, CA, Julie A Lacks (Donald Kratzer), Northumberland, PA; David C Lacks (Maggie), Cleveland, OH; Amy A Wayne (Randy), Ithaca, NY; Jennifer S Lacks, Gouverneur, NY; Seven nieces and nephews, Dayna R Leader (Henry), Daniel J Mullin (Tina), Dionna L Leung (Gee), Doriann M Hughes (Paul), Jered Lacks, Brianne A (Wicks) Sterling (Benjamin & "adopted granddaughter", Avalyn K), Breyden Wicks, 20 great nieces and nephews, 9 great-great nieces and nephews, and her special Ani.

Mary was passionate about surrounding herself with beauty, and was gifted at making her home a gathering place for family and her cherished friends. Friends and family were always treated to elaborate home cooked meals and amazing desserts. Over the years, Mary delighted in hosting holiday events, and her home was always beautifully decorated for every season.

Mary enjoyed many varied interests shared with her devoted friends, from traveling, antiquing, shopping, dining, crafts. gardening, needle punch

Mary maintained the long-lost art of the hand written letter, and regularly corresponded with loved ones.

Among her deepest passions, the greatest was for her rescue of many homeless dogs. Most recently, her Ralphie was the one that touched her heart the deepest. To best honor Mary's dedication to rescue animals, donations are requested to be directed to Friends for Pound Paws, Gouverneur, NY.

In Mary's last days, the deepest devotion of her closest friends Arnie & Jackie, Ann, Vickie, Mona P, Mona F was very apparent and was a huge source of comfort for her and her loved ones. A few very dedicated doctors, nurses and aides who cared for Mary in her last days were quickly able to discern her gentle spirit.

Arrangements are being provided by French Funeral Home. There will be no calling hours or funeral. A private service will be held at a later date. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.