Philip Wayne Smith Sr. Obituary (1944

Philip Smith, 80, passed away peacefully at Canton Potsdam Hospital in New York on November 8th, 2024, with his sisters-in-law, Theresa and Julie LaVenture by his side. Philip Wayne Smith was born October 1st, 1944, in Massena, NY, to Francis Gerald Smith and Helen Ilean Steinberg. He grew up there, graduating from Massena Central School in 1962. In the spring of 1963, he joined the Air Force in Syracuse, NY. After basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in TX, he spent time in Amarillo, Duluth, and eventually wrapped up his four-year enlistment at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base in Taiwan. After he returned to civilian life in Massena, he was invited to a party held on March 24th, 1967, by Bonnie Podgurski. Even though she was a year ahead of him at the same school, they weren't familiar with each other. Their romance was quick; they married on August 12th, 1967, at St. Mary's Church in Massena. Their only child, Philip Jr., was born in Syracuse on October 30th, 1968. After working various civilian jobs, Phil reentered the Air Force in the summer of 1971, stationed at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. His first overseas assignment brought the family to KCDI Air Base in Turkey in 1973. During stints at Dover AFB in Delaware, Scott AFB in Illinois, Spangdahlem AB in West Germany, and Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota, Phil earned several decorations and medals. He also became a skilled racquetball player. By the time he retired as a master sergeant in 1987, he was frequently able to defeat men half his age on the racquetball court. With Philip Jr. now in college, Phil and Bonnie returned to Massena and purchased a cozy house on Bishop Avenue. Phil worked at Associated Reporters, SeaComm Federal Credit Union, Homestead Dairy, Allied Federated Co-op, and Home Depot before retiring for good. He spent his free time tinkering with computers and other tech gadgets, and maintained a flourishing garden each summer. Phil was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Lawrence and Gerald; and his wife. He is survived by his son; two sisters, Sharon Freeman of Syracuse, NY, and Marion McNeill of Lake Placid, FL; and many nieces and nephews. A graveside service is planned for the spring. Arrangements are under the care and guidance of Frary Funeral Home, 60 Maple Street, Massena. Online condolences may be shared with Phil's family at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.