Sandra M. Smith

Sandra M. Smith, 83, of Albany, New York, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Sandra was born on November 12, 1941, in Albany, NY, where she lived her entire life. She was the daughter of the late Elanor and Jay Smith and was raised in a home filled with faith, hard work, and compassion—values that would shape her entire life and influence all who knew her.

Sandra graduated from Albany High School in 1960. On January 5, 1964, she married the love of her life, Wallace C. Smith. Together, they built a home rooted in faith, love, unwavering devotion and welcomed daughter Kimberly and son Richard. Their marriage, which spanned more than four decades, was a true partnership filled with laughter, shared dreams, and an unbreakable bond until Wallace’s passing in 2005.

Throughout her life, Sandra was a woman of many talents and endless energy. She worked tirelessly to support her family and proudly wore many hats: she waitressed for many years, earned an associate’s degree in business, worked as a certified medical coder, she was a trusted tax preparer each season, and she worked as a secretary at MDIA and Apex Sewage and Drain. Her work ethic was unmatched, but she always found time for what mattered most—her family, her faith, and her community.

Sandra was a woman of deep and enduring faith. She was actively involved in Christ Lutheran Church in Albany for many years, where she served joyfully in numerous roles, including the altar guild, church council, women’s group, and more. Her faith journey continued when she became a dedicated member of McKownville United Methodist Church, where she spent the last five years growing in spiritual community and service.

Sandra had a heart that embraced everyone she met. Her warmth and joy radiated through every room she entered. She was the life of the party, the rock of her family, and a tireless supporter of everyone’s dreams. Whether she was cheering from the sidelines, offering a listening ear, or planning the next gathering, Sandra made people feel seen, heard, and loved.

She found immense joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. She loved bowling, dancing, and attending theater and dance performances, especially when her grandchildren were involved. One of her greatest traditions was traveling to Wells, Maine every year with her family, a place that held a special spot in her heart. She cherished the time spent along the coast and had a deep love for lighthouses, visiting as many as she could. Sandra was a loyal friend and a true social butterfly who never hesitated to lend a hand, share a laugh, or offer a heartfelt prayer.

Above all else, Sandra was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, cousin, and friend. Her family was her greatest pride and joy. She is survived by her loving daughter, Kimberly DeMoor of Schenectady, NY, and her devoted son, Richard (Kayleigh) Smith of Albany, NY. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Madison Burrell-Murray, Vincenzo DeMoor, Nicolas Van Vorst, Reegan Smith, and Jovial Smith, all of Albany and Schenectady. Sandra also leaves behind her brother, Richard Smith of Palm Coast, FL, her dear cousin and best friend Diane (Lee) Schwegler of Glastonbury, CT, childhood friend Beverly Bellinger of FL and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends all of whom were deeply touched by her presence.

Sandra was predeceased by her husband, Wallace C. Smith, her beloved sister Jenise Sutherland, and her parents Elanor and Jay Smith. While their absence was deeply felt in her later years, Sandra’s strength, resilience, and joy never wavered.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, located at 343 New Karner Road in Colonie, NY. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at McKownville United Methodist Church, 1565 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203. A procession will follow to her final resting place at Westerlo Rural Cemetery, 799-747 NY-143, Westerlo, NY 12193.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sandra’s memory may be made to McKownville United Methodist Church, supporting the faith community that meant so much to her.

Sandra M. Smith will be remembered for her boundless love, her laughter, her vibrant spirit, and the light she brought into so many lives. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of strength, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who had the blessing to know her.