Cornelius Smith

Cornelius (Neil) Smith begin life in Jersey City, New Jersey on June 30, 1955; he is the son of Ruby Mae Smith Roland. He transitioned peacefully into eternal rest surrounded by his loving family on August 28, 2024. Cornelius was raised in a loving and caring blended family by His mother Ruby Mae Roland and father the late Reverend William Roland of Albany, New York.

Cornelius lived with his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Seaborn Smith until school age, after which time, he joined his loving family in Albany. He attended the Albany Public School System. Cornelius accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at the Sweet Pilgrim Baptist Church, Albany, New York, and was baptized at an early age under the Pastorate of his stepfather the late Reverend William Roland. Neil as he was so affectionately called, was a devoted father, son, brother, companion and friend. During his adolescent years, his friends called him “Corney.”

Cornelius was employed by the New York State Department of OGS for many years. He was also employed by the CDTA, and Bethlehem School System. He retired early due to his declining health.

Cornelius possessed an enormously deep devoted love for his family, especially his son Lamar, his mother Ruby and his grandchildren, Lamar, Jr., LaVaysha Smith, LaShajuan Smith , and his bonus grandchildren Jhon’Zaya, Jasiyel, Jayce, Jia.

Cornelius loved talking junk or smack to friends and acquaintances. He could always make you laugh over the craziest things he’d say. His wit was infectious . One of his favorite saying was “I know I’m bad.” When Cornelius was trying to make a point, he would always say “have a seat, son.”

Celebrating Cornelius’ love and Legacy are his mother Ruby Mae Roland, his son, Lamar Deshawn Smith, his sisters, Minnie Comithier, Linda Roland, and Stacey Roland; his brothers, William Roland and Baryon Roland; his grandchildren; his beloved companion of over 30 years, Norma Price, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, friends, and especially his longtime friend John Yanson. Cornelius was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Seaborn and Luven Smith, his brother Reginald Maurice Roland, and father Reverend William Roland.

Precious memories how they linger, Cornelius will be sorely missed!❤️

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