Obituary
Guest Book
Richard W. SMITH, Jr., 67, of Friendship, NY, died Monday, October 6, 2025 in his home.
Rich was born September 12, 1958, in Olean, NY. On November 16, 2019, in Cuba, he married Marites L. Cagunan Lagting, who survives.
A graduate of Bolivar Central School, he was employed by various construction companies. Rich was a volunteer firefighter with the Bolivar Fire Department, where he was a medal of honor recipient for saving the lives of two fellow firefighters. He was an avid hunter and Buffalo Bills fan.
Surviving besides his wife, Tess, are: three children, Misty Smith of Friendship, Joshua (Katie) Smith of Olean, and Paul Smith of Portville; nine grandchildren, Gavin, Raven, Grace, Emery, Christian, Joshua, Jr., Paul, Jr., Carston, and Coleson; and a sister, Robyn Smith of Ellicottville.
He was predeceased by his father, Richard W. Smith.
Memorials may be made to Allegany County Cancer Services.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com
296 N Main St, Wellsville, NY 14895
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more