Lora Smith

1924 - 2022

Lora Mae Ard Smith passed away on Saturday, December 10, 2022, at the age of 98. She was the daughter of Laris Ogden Ard and Lois Emelda Ard. She was born on June 6, 1924. Never let it be said that Lora Mae was not the life of the party. She loved to go out and have fun. A graduate of Eleanor McMain, she grew up in New Orleans. As a young girl, she attended dance and acrobatics. She partnered with her cousin, Nevette Gardebled, doing acrobatics. In order to practice, she used to jump off of the roof of her house into his arms-without her parents' knowledge, of course! Quite the celebrity, she was featured in Ripley's "Believe It Or Not" because of her feats of flexibility. Married during World War II to Mason Smith, she divorced quite young. She had one daughter, Laris Marcelyn Smith DeSalvo, two grandchildren, Jay Fisher DeSalvo (Karen) and Lisa Ard DeSalvo Rice (John), and two great-grandchildren, Parker John Rice and Colin Joseph Rice. In later life, she was quite a square dance aficionado. She and her partner, Jack Pujol, traveled to many parts of the U.S. on square dance trips. They made many good friends among the square dance community. The family wishes to thank the staff of Summer House Vista Shores Assisted Living for the wonderful, loving care they provided to her during her final years. In addition, the family would like to thank Serenity Hospice for the comfort provided during the passing. Services will be private. To leave your fond thoughts, memories, and condolences for the family, please visit Lora Mae's online guestbook at www.lakelawnmetairie.com.