Larry J. SMITH, 67, of Galeton, PA, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, January 1, 2026 in UPMC Williamsport. 

Larry was born May 11, 1958, in Olean, NY. A 1976 graduate of Galeton Area High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in education with a science concentration from Penn State University. On April 12, 1980, in Germania, Larry married his sweetheart, Denise Van Gorder, to whom he was married for 45 years. Also in 1980, Larry began his career as an educator at Galeton Area School, where he eventually retired as principal in 2015. Larry was a proud member of his community. He served with the Germania Volunteer Fire Company, Gale Hose Ambulance (Chief 1060), and the Galeton Library board. He will also be remembered for his success as a grant writer for Galeton Area School District and numerous volunteer service organizations. Larry led a full and active life with many impressive achievements, but to him his greatest achievements in life were his two sons. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Denise; sons, Brent (Megan) Smith and Erick (Nora) Smith; brother, Tracy (Jennifer) Gross; his father, James (Peggy) Smith; bonus dad, Walter Gross; sister-in-law, Holly Smith; his beloved grand-dogs, Molly and Augustus; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Betty Hyde Gross; and his brother, Rich Smith. 

Services will be announced on a later date. Burial will be in West Hill Cemetery, Galeton. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Galeton Area School (memo—Christmas Child Program), Attn: Janet McPherson, 27 Bridge St., Galeton, PA 16922. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.