Clarise Smith

Miss Clarise “Granny” Smith departed this life on Friday, April 5, 2024 in Somers, New York She was born in Harlem, New York on January 28, 1927 to the late Raymond and Nellie Cornelius Smith.

She graduated from the New York school system. Miss Clarise then attended Wilfred Beauty Academy, where she later taught Cosmetology.

Miss Clarise grew up in Harlem and moved with her family to Queens. After 53 years of contented living in her home in Jamaica Queens, she moved to Yorktown Heights in 2017 to be near her daughter and family, and later moved into the Country blouse assisted living residence.

Active in her church ministries in Queens, Miss Clarise enjoyed singing in the choir. She was an avid reader and enjoyed debating many topics. Miss Clarise was a feisty dancer and loved going to clubs to Jitterbug and Lindy Hop. She loved to travel and took many cruises with friends. Crafts were another of Miss Clarise's passions. She had certifications in pottery and jewelry making and enjoyed creating fabric art. She was a hard worker and was always active. She was a manager at Alexander's while at the same time continuing her career and business as a Cosmetologist. After moving to Westchester, she enjoyed activities at the Yorktown heights Community Center, dinners with friends at the Country House, and audio books at home. More than anything, she loved to spend time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren and in later years with special friends Marichu, David and Miss Linda who brought her peace, joy and companionship.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter and son-in-law, Miss Geri and Frank Suozzo; four Grandchildren, Veronica Horne, Madeline (Ryan) Merrifield, Francis Suozzo, Jr. and Connor Suozzo; five Great Grandchildren, Vivienne Gabriele Horne, Mabel Joy Merrifield, Bethany Grace Merrifield, James Xavier Merrifield and Theodore Ryan Merrifield. She was predeceased by her sister Yetta and brother Raymond, Jr.

Our “Granny” will be greatly missed, but we know that she is now with her Lord and Savior. With her new body she can see and walk again and is no doubt continuing to laugh her infectious laugh!

Lovingly submitted, THE FAMILY