Dorothy Rene Smith

Celebrating the Life of Dorothy Rene Smith
Sunrise: July 21, 1960 – Sunset: July 19, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the homegoing celebration of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Dorothy Rene Smith.

Dorothy, 64, of Lorain, Ohio, entered eternal rest on July 19, 2025. Born on July 21, 1960, in Oberlin, Ohio, to the late Arthur Moore and Joan (Scott) Moore, Dorothy came into this world with a light that could never be dimmed.

Dorothy was a woman of strength, grace, and unmistakable presence. She possessed a fiery spirit and a courageous soul that carried her through life’s joys and trials with resilience and style. Dorothy spoke truth with love, lived without pretense, and brought laughter wherever she went. Her humor was as natural as her warmth, and her candor was never without compassion.

A proud graduate of Oberlin High School, Dorothy chose a path outside of college but lived a life of wisdom and intention—teaching lessons that could never be learned in a classroom. She was both tender and strong, bold and generous, always willing to share her gifts—whether through family recipes, quiet guidance, or laughter that lingered long after she left the room.

Dorothy adored her family and often joked that her children had so many children that even she couldn’t keep up—yet she cherished them all beyond measure. She was the voice on the other end of the line, the thoughtful card arriving right on time. Her love was active, steadfast, and deeply felt.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children: Lionel Smith Jr., Nadia Smith, and Nicole Smith; her sisters, Alison Arnold and Martha LaCroix; 14 cherished grandchildren; and a growing legacy of great-grandchildren who brought her immeasurable joy. She is also dearly remembered by Lester Evans, her companion and caretaker in her later years; and by Lionel Smith, with whom she shared the journey of parenthood. Her memory lives on in the hearts of many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends whose lives she touched with kindness and grace.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur Moore and Joan (Scott) Moore; her treasured daughter, Samia Smith; and her brothers; Edsel Hocker and George Hocker.

She will be remembered for her courage, her candor, and that laugh that could turn sorrow into joy. Dorothy lived life on her own terms—fearless, loving, and full of grace. Her warmth, her wisdom, and her unwavering spirit will live on in every heart she touched. Her family will honor her by carrying forward the traditions she cherished and the lessons she lived—because Dorothy would have it no other way.

A public viewing will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, beginning at 1:00 PM, immediately followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM located at Carter Funeral Home 3001 Elyria Avenue Lorain, OH 44055

Dorothy will be laid to eternal rest surrounded by those who cherished her most. We invite all who knew and loved her to join us in honoring her life, her legacy, and the light she shared with the world.

Funeral Arrangements Entrusted to

Carter Funeral Homes Inc.

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