Raymond Smith

COLONIE - Raymond Joseph Smith, passed into eternal life, surrounded by his beloved family on Monday, April 04, 2005, The Annunciation of Our Lord. Raymond proudly served his country during World War II, as a decorated officer of the U. S. Navy on the USS Boston. His education included Holy Cross College with a B.S. in engineering, and Siena Collage, with a B.S. in accounting/business. He established Smith's Colonie Wine and Liquors in 1947, serving the Capital District, and actively participating in his cherished Industry for 58 years. Smith's Colonie Wine and Liquors initial location was adjacent to the Smith's family owned food store, in a small 500 sq. foot building. By 1951, as the area grew in population and expansion, the business would continue to grow through hard work, determination and extension of key brand names of wine, liquor and cordials. Smith's Colonie Wine and Liquors moved to its permanent location in 1960. Within the beverage industry, he was regarded as a passionate, dedicated friend and gentlemen. Raymond participated in numerous beverage industry panels. He encouraged through education his employees, many of whom expanded their service within the beverage industry to the distributor and supplier side. Raymond embraced his families values and service within the community. He was a founding member of the Greater Colonie Chamber of Commerce, appointed to the board of directors and later serving as vice president. He maintained an active roll in community affairs with service and membership in civic, church and recreational activities. Raymond was a member of The Exchange Club, Village of Colonie Development Association, Knights of Columbus and Colonie Elks. He was an active communicant of St. Clare Church and Parish in Colonie. He cherished his family. He had an extensive sense of humor. He enjoyed sailing and would spend several weeks each February sailing the lower Caribbean. He actively painted and consistently challenged his growing knowledge through adult educational courses, and cultural enrichment through travel. His love of his USS Boston colleagues sent him to annual shipmates reunions throughout the United States. His legacy will forever be within the hearts and minds of all he held dear. Raymond was predeceased by his eternal soul mate Dolores G. Mrozowski Smith. Father of Karen M. Smith-Sfara (Vincent) of Albany; brother of Doris M. Smith of Albany; grandfather of Vincent R. Sfara II (Michelle MacCready) of Northern California and Michelle A. Sfara of Albany; brother-in-law of Mrs. Wallace (Evelyn) Malek and Joseph P. Mrozowski; and Pierre Daddy to Cristal. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend Raymond's Celebration of Eternal Life at 11:00 o'clock Friday morning at The Church of St. Clare, 1947 Central Ave., Colonie, NY 12205. All other services will be private, at the request of the family. In lieu of flowers, kindly contact St. Clare's Parish and request contributions in Raymond's name for the St. Clare's Memorial Fund.