Wayne M. Smith

After graduating from Washington High School in Washington, NJ, Wayne joined the US Army, which included a tour of duty in Vietnam. On return to the states, he was active in the Army Reserves. Later he was employed by SI Handling Systems in Easton, PA. While here, he worked as an Installation Field Superintendent of various automated systems. This took him to many parts of the US and Canada as well as some worldwide installations.

After many years of travel and time away from family, Wayne decided to pursue another dream and the family purchased their current farm in Watkins Glen. Here Wayne enjoyed raising a variety of animals and working the fields. He also found time for his enjoyment of antiques and collectibles, which included antique gas engines, farm equipment and household goods and tools. Ever the thinker and designer he was always figuring out new ways to make something work. It was on the farm and in his workshop that he spent the remainder of his days.

Always cherishing our freedom that he and many members of his family served to protect, the 4th of July was always important to him. He began an annual Independence Day party that over the years grew to include dozens of friends, family, and neighbors. He was saddened when disease and hospitalization cancelled last July’s event.

In addition to his parents, Wayne was predeceased by his brother Harry C. Smith and nephew, Capt. David M. Smith, USN. He is survived by his spouse, Patti Smith, children, Kevin (Liz) Smith of Horseheads, Kristy (Randy) Thorpe of Watkins Glen and Sherri (Scott) Tapp of Hackettstown, NJ; his grandchildren, Kambrie and Kaylee Thorpe of Watkins Glen and Noah Tapp of Hackettstown, NJ; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A gathering to celebrate Wayne’s life will be held on Wednesday, December 20th, 2017 from 6 to 8pm at the Haughey Wood Funeral Home, 119 5th St., Watkins Glen. In recognition of his service Military Honors will be held at the Funeral Home at 6pm. Those wishing to remember Wayne may make contributions in his memory to any cancer or Veterans organizations of one’s choice.