Elenora Y McCargo-Smith

Elenora Yvonne McCargo Smith, affectionately known as “Yvonne”, entered into eternal rest on July 5, 2025, at St. Peter’s Hospital at the age of 62. A lifelong resident of Albany, New York, Yvonne was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and a dear friend to many.

Yvonne was known for her joyous laugh, gentle spirit, and unwavering, playful sense of humor. Her warmth and kindness left a lasting impact on everyone she met. She dedicated many years to home health care, where her compassion and dedication uplifted countless lives. She also proudly served as a school bus driver for the Albany City School District, earning respect and admiration for her commitment and work ethic.

In August 2015, Yvonne was selected to deliver a speech on behalf of her graduating classes from Schenectady County Community College’s Community Health Care Program—a moment that spoke to her integrity, leadership, and the admiration she inspired in others.

Outside of work, Yvonne found immense joy in the simple things: cooking hearty meals for her family, fishing with her grandchildren, keeping her home impeccably clean, solving word puzzles, and watching sermons or her favorite shows like Law & Order and Monk. Her greatest joy, however, came from time spent with her family, especially her beloved grandchildren.

Yvonne leaves behind her devoted mother, Doris McCargo, her loving husband, James Smith, her daughters Kanika McCargo and KeAira Briley, and her precious grandchildren: KalinaRodriguez, Kaarii O’Neil, Kahleel Caldwell, Kasier Caldwell, Jahvel Caldwell, Jahsel Caldwell, Jaymere Caldwell andKaylani Caldwell. She is also survived by her siblings: Margaret McCargo, James McCargo, and Jacob McCargo, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will carry her memory forward.

A memorial service celebrating Yvonne’s life will be held on July 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the S.L. McLaughlin Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Taysha Flores, located at 191 Henry Johnson Boulevard, in memory of Yvonne.

Though Yvonne may have departed this earth, her love, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

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