Nelson Smith

Dr. Nelson N. Smith, 68, of Edinboro, died Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at UPMC Hamot. He was born in Erie on October 7, 1952, the son of the late Nevin and Joanne Smith.

Nelson was Salutatorian of General McLane High School Class of 1970. He attended Penn State University for his undergraduate and doctoral degrees, and Clarion University for his masters. Nelson was a Professor of Communications at Edinboro University for 22 years. He was also Emeritus Professor of Communications. Dr. Smith was a trusted adviser to his many students and friends. He was a member of Zeta Psi Fraternity.

He was a popular culture enthusiast and avid toy collector (especially Howdy Doody). Above all, he was a loving husband and a wonderful father, brother and grandfather.

Survivors include his loving wife, Cathrine A. Bender; daughter, Nora Spencer-Loveall (Lisa) of Atlanta, Georgia; sister, Karen Gardner (William) of Philadelphia, PA; three grandchildren, Archer, Fox, and Beatrice Loveall; and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. at First United Presbyterian Church, 4281 Route 6N, Edinboro, PA 16412. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Greg Gillispie officiating. All CDC guidelines requiring face masks and social distancing will be in place.

The Glunt Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., Edinboro is in charge of funeral arrangements.

Burial will be in Edinboro Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Parkinson Partners of NWPA (www.parkinsonpartners.org/donate). To send condolences please visit www.gluntfuneralhome.com.