Laurie R. Ridley-Smith

Prince Frederick, NY October 22, 1968 – February 28, 2026 Age 57

Laurie R. Ridley-Smith, 57, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, in Prince Frederick, MD.

Born on October 22, 1968, in Waterloo, NY, Laurie was a 1987 graduate of Midlakes High School in Phelps. She spent many years working in retail and customer service, most recently with Walmart, Tim Hortons, and Byrne Dairy, where she formed lasting friendships with both customers and co-workers.

Laurie’s greatest joy in life was her family—her children, her grandson, and her loving husband, Michael. She loved walking along the Seneca Lakefront, traveling, and decorating her home for every holiday and season. A devoted fan of the Buffalo Bills and Syracuse Orange, she also cherished attending Army–Navy football games. Laurie was proud to support local service projects and the veteran community, with Honor Flight Syracuse holding a special place in her heart. When she traveled, she was happiest anywhere warm. Her vibrant, sassy personality could brighten any room.

Laurie is survived by her husband, Michael Smith of Prince Frederick, MD, and Waterloo, NY; her daughter Morgan Key (Shawn O’Donnell) of Waterloo; her son Dalton Wilson of Waterloo; and her grandson, Cameron O’Donnell. She is also survived by her sisters Lisa Crist (JC) of Cheektowaga and Tracy VanDamme of Clifton Springs; her brothers Kerry Ridley (Lori) of Waterloo and Jamie Ridley (Judy) of Asheboro, NC; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Sandra and James Ridley of Phelps, NY.

Family and friends may call on Saturday, March 7, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Mull Funeral Home, 113 N. Virginia Street, Waterloo. The family kindly requests that those attending calling hours wear the color purple, Laurie’s favorite.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Damar Hamlin’s Chasing M’s Foundation (CPR/AED training) https://www.chasingmsfoundation.org/donate or Honor Flight Syracuse, Inc., PO Box 8000184, Buffalo, NY 14267-0002 https://honorflightsyracuse.org/donate-online/