Mary H. Smith

Hon. Mary H. Smith Obituary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of the Honorable Mary Hauser Smith of Yonkers, New York, who passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 11th, 2025, in the presence of her loving family. She was a tireless public servant, a loyal friend, and a devoted mother who will be missed by all she knew.

Mary was born on October 19th, 1945 in Newton, MA to Willard and Anna Hauser. She was the youngest and last surviving of three siblings. She graduated from Simmons College in 1967.

Before embarking on her legal career, Mary spent time in Chicago and New York working as a journalist for several popular magazines, including Ebony and McCall's.

After earning her law degree from Hofstra University in 1977, Mary began working as Special Assistant Attorney General for the State Attorney General's Office in New York. She then served as Senior Assistant District Attorney in the Westchester County District Attorney's Office.

In 1990, Mary became the first elected female judge in the City Court of Yonkers, NY. She was elected to Westchester County Court in 1994 and then to Westchester County Supreme Court in 2002, where she served until her retirement in 2021.

Mary lived a rich and full life outside of the courtroom. She loved to travel, visiting foreign countries such as Costa Rica, China, Morocco, Turkey, among others. She loved animals throughout her life; she was passionate about horse riding and she was kind to her pets, notably Ming (dog) and Cookie (cat). She was active in her local community, belonging to the Bronxville Women's Club and serving in her church, the Reformed Church of Bronxville.

Mary's proudest achievement was her family, to whom she dedicated her tenacious protection and unwavering support. She is survived by her two children, Derek Keyser and Evan Smith, and her two grandchildren, Elsa and Toby Keyser.

Mary Smith will be remembered for her intelligence, fairness, and fiery spirit. She inspired many with her willingness to fight for what she believed in. May her legacy for strength and compassion continue to live on.