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POLAND -- Laurence M. Smith Jr., of Youngstown, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, surrounded by family. He was 83.
Known to many as "Rabbit," he was an "Ohio Legend" of motorcycling. He published Northeast Ohio Motorcycle News and Handcrafted American Racing Motorcycles and contributed to many other publications. In his retirement, as president of the Pirate Motorcycle Club and Historical Society, he published monthly newsletters that blended history with reports of current races and other motorcycling events and hosted dinners, movie nights and social functions. Larry regularly contributed to the National Packard Museum's annual motorcycle exhibit, appeared on the radio and local TV, and exhibited his photography. He published his autobiography, "Rabbit's Tales: The Adventures of a Motorcycle Dweeb," in 2017.
An alum of Cardinal Mooney, he served in the U.S. Navy and later received his bachelor's degree in psychology from Youngstown State University. He worked at Packard Electric and Youngstown Harley-Davidson and later in his career was a glass machinist. He learned about organic gardening from co-workers on the line at Packard and maintained a garden at each of his homes thereafter. Above all, he loved riding his motorcycles, telling stories and sharing a good meal.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Carole Anderson; two daughters, Carrie Smith and Anna (Philip Kim) Smith; a son, David Smith; a sister, Catherine A. (Leonard) Kuzma; two brothers, Terrance L. (Linda) Smith and Gregory R. Smith; many extended family members; and countless friends.
Larry was preceded in death by his father, Laurence M. Smith Sr., and mother, Mary Rita Gilboy Smith.
A celebration of life will take place in spring of 2027.
For details on the event or to share memories, email RabbitMemorial@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the National Packard Museum, the East Palestine Library or a veterans' charity of your choice, in his honor.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman.
Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family and support by visiting the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.
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