Obituary of John Anthony Smith

Elmira:  It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tony Smith, a cherished husband, father, friend, and long-time barber.  Tony passed away on Sunday, June 8, 2025. He was born in Waverly NY, the son of William and Agnes (Heffernan) Smith.  Tony is survived by his wife Constance McElroy Smith; sons and daughters-in-law, Kevin and Shelli Martin of Brooklyn NY, Christopher and Linda Smith of Elmira Heights, Mark Smith of Williamsport PA, and Patrick and Alicia Smith of Redstone CO; sister Marie Ferro of Sayre PA with her son Michael; along with several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Beginning his career as a barber in Elmira in 1961, in a shop at 602 Broadway, he spent the last 54 years at his well-loved shop at 308 Fulton Street, welcoming generations of clients, serving the community with skill and camaraderie.  He dedicated over six decades to his craft, cutting hair right up to the last week of his life.  A lifelong NY Yankee fan, he found joy in following nearly every sport, always ready to debate stats or celebrate victories.  Those fortunate enough to know him will remember his dry wit and biting humor, qualities that made time spent in his chair or on his front porch all the more enjoyable.  Later in life, after bravely overcoming a stage four cancer diagnosis, he embraced travel with his wife Connie.  Their adventures took them to Colorado to visit their son Patrick and his wife Alicia, to Florida to visit in-laws Lynn and Alan, and to Brooklyn to see his son Kevin and his wife Shelli – treasured moments that added new chapters to his journey.

Tony was a life member of the Elmira Elks Lodge #62, the Knights of Columbus, the A.O.H. Msgr John J. Lee Division, as well as serving as a Eucharistic Minister at Our Lady of Lourdes Church.  He was deeply connected to the community of Elmira.

His presence will be deeply missed, but the stories, laughter, and love he shared will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W Water Street, Elmira, on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m.  Interment, with committal prayers, will then take place at St. Peter & Paul’s Cemetery. 

Those wishing may remember Tony with a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105-9959.