Grace Smith Larry

Grace Smith Larry
Grace Smith Larry, 98, of Portland, CT, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Grace was born on October 14, 1927, to the late Lemon and Ola Mae (Blalock) Smith. She was a beloved community figure. She managed her family's restaurant, Smith's Luncheonette, where her exceptional cooking drew people from near and far. Her life was rooted in service-she was an ordained deacon at True Vine Holiness Church and was known for playing her tambourine and the guitar. She also helped found the People Helping People Coalition; extending support to anyone in need in the surrounding community and later continued her service work with CRT (formerly CAGM). Grace deeply loved her family and was known for her hospitality, always offering home-made foods and sweet Kool-Aid. Her impact on Portland's community is preserved through the Portland Historical Society, which documented her life in a published work now housed in the local library. Guided by her strong faith, Grace encouraged her family to put God first and to always pray. She is survived by her son, Arthur A. Smith and a host of family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents, brothers Ernest and Leonard; and sisters Sophronia and Emma.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 20th at 11:00 a.m. at Cross Street AME Zion Church, 440 West Street, Middletown. A burial will follow in Trinity Cemetery in Portland. Family and friends may call on Thursday Morning before the service at the church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. To share memories or send condolences, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.