ANTHONY R. SMITH JR.

VERGENNES — Anthony R. Smith, Jr. was born on Jan. 18, 1997, in Meriden, Conn. He tragically passed away on Nov. 12, 2023, at the age of 26. Residing in Vergennes, Vt., he leaves behind his parents, Kerri Shara, formerly of Meriden, Conn., and Anthony R. Smith, formerly of New Haven, Conn,. and his siblings Keyanah, Trevon (Anna), Kyriek (Maddie), Sierra, Issiah, Monika and Jaylinn Smith.

His survivors include his paternal grandmother, Diane Smith; aunts Kimberley N. Talmadge (Burton), Patricia Shara (Walter Paluszewski), Susan E. Shara and Cyrus A. Smith; cousins Kristi L. Welch (Riley and Peyton), Kelli Marnalse (Dominic), Kaitlyn Marnalse, Sarah Marnalse (Carter, Karson) and Brandon Gauthier (Lauren); several additional cousins; and his girlfriend, Teylor Huff. He will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews Gabriella, Isabella, Avoriella, Gavin, Olivia and his favorite little human best friend Zaidyn.

He is predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Dennis R. and Patricia A. Shara, paternal grandfather, Calvin Lester, and sister Kiara Smith.

Anthony graduated from Vergennes Union High School in 2015. His employment reflected his passion for farming and excavation. An adventurous person, he loved nature and the great outdoors. He enjoyed his time surrounded by his family and friends. He was the life of the party with a smile and presence that lit up the room. Friends Ryan, Cody, J.T. and Josh were a very important part of his life and brought out the best in him.

Anthony will be remembered for his love for his mother, who he adoringly called Maji Faji, and how he always put his family first. He had an infectious laugh and often would go out of his way to make those around him happy. He will be forever missed and loved by his family and those fortunate enough to have known him.

A celebration of life for Anthony will be held on Dec. 9, at The American Legion Post 14, 100 Armory Lane, Vergennes, Vt., at 1 p.m. ◊