Doris Jean (Smashey) Larie, passed away on May 17, 2026. She was born on February 3rd, 1942 to Philip and Leona Smashey. Doris was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
She married Richard Larie in 1994 in Saline, Michigan, at St. Paul United Church of Christ. In 2001, Doris and Richard moved to the Stockbridge area, where they became members of Good Shepherd Mission. Doris dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She was not only a loving mother to her own children, but also a nurturing caregiver and nanny to many children throughout the community. Doris opened her heart and home to countless young lives over the years, helping raise and guide many children as if they were her own. Her patience, compassion, and unwavering support made her a source of comfort and stability for so many families. To many, she was more than a babysitter, she was “Mom,” “Grandma,” “Nanny,” and a safe place filled with love and encouragement. She found great joy in cooking and baking and was especially known for her famous cupcakes. Whatever Doris baked quickly became everyone’s favorite.
Doris is survived by her loving husband, Richard Larie; her children, Ronald (Linda) Benzinger of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Patrick Benzinger of High Ridge, Missouri, and Michelle, George, Katrina, Isaiah, and Joseph Larie of Stockbridge; her brother, Patrick (Irene) Webster; and many cherished grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Richard Lee Benzinger; her brothers, Don, Jimmy, and Larry Smashey; and her sister, Joyce Raeburn.
A funeral service will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A private burial will take place at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choosing.
