Eugene Smalley

Eugene R. Smalley, 93, of Girard, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at LECOM Hospital.

Gene was born on July 24, 1932, in Girard, a son of the late John D. and Elizabeth (Vangor) Smalley.

He graduated from Girard’s Rice Avenue Union High School in 1950. He immediately began working for his uncle, Andy Broda Construction, and Zeno Seneta Construction. He later enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserves and, during the Korean Conflict, was inducted into the U.S. Army, where he served with the 25th Division MP Company.

Upon his honorable discharge from the military, he returned home and began working with Carpenters Union Local #81, Hardner & Doyle in Erie, and later Perry Construction, from where he retired in 1985. During his retirement years, he continued working and enjoyed driving cars to auction for the Greater Erie Auto Auction.

He was a member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Girard, where he served as an officer, and the Girard American Legion Post #494.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John D. Smalley, Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Irene (Kelyman) Smalley, whom he married on May 11, 1957, in Crossingville; two daughters, Debbie Platz (Mike) and Sharon Ward (Lyle); two grandchildren, Jessica Godlewski of Nashville, TN, and Justin Hardik (Jessie); a sister, Virginia Lucero of Calabash, NC; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ANNA Shelter, 1555 E. 10th St., Erie, PA 16511, or the Humane Society, 2407 Zimmerly Rd., Erie, PA 16506.

Friends may call on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Edder Family Funeral Home, 309 Main St. East, Girard, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a funeral service to follow at 7:00 p.m. Burial with military honors will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

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