Hannelore "Lori" F. Smith

Hannelore (Lori) Smith, 70, of Colonie, passed away Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Albany Medical Center.

Born December 2, 1954 in Weehawken NJ, she was the daughter of the late Hans W. and Josefa (Ossowski) Braasch.

Lori graduated from Fonda Fultonville Central High School and went on to Cosmetology School in Albany. She worked as a hair dresser, owning her own salon, for more than 20 years. She then returned to higher education, receiving and associates degree from SCCC, a BA from SUNY Albany and her Juris Doctorate from Albany Law School. She practiced law in various positions with the State until she retired in 2020. She was an active member at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and Christian School in Colonie where she served on the school board and was heavily active in various women’s and children groups and ministries. Lori enjoyed travel with family and friends and hosted social gatherings and game nights with neighbors and fellow church members.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister Marianne Braasch of Richfield Springs, NY. 

She is survived by her daughter, Melissa (Smith) Humm and husband Brent Humm and their two daughters, Emily Humm and Emma Midkiff-Humm of Shickshinny, PA. As well as her sons: Matthew Smith and his wife Amanda of Coopersburg, PA and Mark Smith of Troy, NY. Also by her brother, Hans Braasch and his wife Lisa of Fultonville, NY. 

Viewing hours will be from 9:30-11am Saturday March 15, Service at 11am at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 63 Mountain View in Colonie, NY 12205. Immediately following the service there will be a luncheon in her honor. Guests are encouraged, but not required to bring a dish to share.

Donations in her name may be made to

Our Savior’s Christian School  63 Mountain View Avenue Colonie, NY 12205