Clifford Smith

Clifford Gerald Smith
May 17, 1934 – November 7, 2026
Clifford Gerald Smith (“Cliff”) of Geneva passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, November 7th at Keuka Comfort Care Home in Penn Yan. He was 92.

Cliff was born in Waterloo, NY to William H. and Emma Smith. After attending Waterloo High School and graduating in the Class of 1952, he continued his studies with night classes at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) while working full time, earning his degree in 1966. He began his career at American Can Company before moving to Kordite Corporation, later acquired by Mobil Chemical Company. He worked more than 30 years there, working as a draftsman/engineer and a group leader before retiring in 1992.

Introduced by friends, Cliff and Mary Ann enjoyed a short courtship before marrying on July 3, 1958, in Waterloo, NY. Together, they shared 68 years of marriage, making numerous wonderful memories together.
As a member of the Waterloo Sportsman’s Club for many years, Cliff enjoyed shooting skeet and trap as well as organizing the club’s annual ham fundraising dinner. He also loved playing golf, especially with his grandchildren, watching golf tournaments and classic westerns on TV, and, well into his 80s, helping his daughter Donna raise and show alpacas.

Above all, Cliff cherished his family. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren grow and become caring and loving adults: Nicholas, Samantha, and Alexis Smith; Jason and Kyle Ingerson; and Christopher (Kelly) and Alec Hein

In addition to his loving wife, Mary Ann, Cliff is survived by his three children Donna Smith, William (Kelly) Smith, and Julie (Patrick) Hein, his seven grandchildren, his sister Barbara Vincent, his brother Carl, and his faithful dog Jenna. He was predeceased by his brother William.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, November 12th from 10:00 – 11:00 am, at Cheney Funeral Home, 70 Main St, Phelps, NY, (PLEASE NOTE CHANGE) A memorial service will be held at 11am following calling hours (Nov. 12) at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Keuka Comfort Care Home, 35 East Lake Rd, Penn Yann, NY 14527, would be appreciated.