Last weekend, the poker world learned that Lori Geer Smith (March 12, 1959 - November 7, 2024) passed away from cancer at her home in Chico, Texas.
Lupe Soto, founder of the Women in Poker Hall of Fame, shared the news on the Ladies International Poker Series (LIPS) page:
“Heaven has gained an angel... Lori Geer Smith who is a friend to so many of our poker sisterhood has passed and we'll miss her deeply. Our hearts are hurting but none more than her sweet family. Our prayers and love are with them all. Fly high Lori... seat open.”
Smith had $50,149 in lifetime earnings dating back to 2010 according to the Hendon Mob, which included a career-high $10,449 for finishing ninth in the 2013 Choctaw Fall Poker Classic $1,100 Championship Event.
Smith’s obituary stated: “Lori married Ronnie Smith on July 1, 1981. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church, the Ed Henry Stewart Charitable Foundation, and the Women's Poker Association. Lori enjoyed traveling with her husband on cruises. But most of all Lori (Marmie) loved spending time with her family and friends. She will be greatly missed.
“Those left behind to cherish her memory are her husband, Ronnie Smith; sons, Ronnie Jim Smith and wife Hillary of Denton, Texas, and Griffin Smith and wife Whitney of Runaway Bay, Texas; grandchildren, Pake and wife Libby , Paxsen and Kaydence, Grayson, Hayden, Sean, Ian, Brandon, and Nathan; great grandchild Cohen; siblings, Kristie Williamson and Tobin Scott Geer and wife Jennifer; along with many extended family and friends.”
Almost immediately poker players were quick to remember Smith.
Leslie Grodin shared: “This is breaking my heart. Lori was the kindest soul and always enjoyed whenever we got to connect, in person or on chat. She was so supportive of this group and i know i will miss her. Much love and support to all you ladies who knew and loved her and especially to her family.”
“Today heaven got one of the good ones Lori Geer Smith. I am so [heartbroken] to hear this,” wrote Rebecca Scales. “She was so kind to me and protected me from some ladies who were not so kind coming up.”
Liz Huey offered: “I am truly so so sad. Lori was so super nice and always helped her friends and family. She was one of the very first women I ever played live poker with. She will be deeply missed.”
Terry Constantino remembered: “Such a sweet soul. She graciously assumed my role as treasurer for WPA, becoming only the 2nd person to do so. Not sure how many times I thanked her. Lori, thank you one last time.”
A visitation was held Monday, November 11, 2024, at the Bible Baptist Church in Jacksboro, Texas and Smith was laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery. PokerNewsjoins those offering condolences to the friends and family of Lori Geer Smith.
