LOWVILLE - Joanne Kohler Smith, 71, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2014, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse. Joanne was born March 5, 1943, in Buffalo, the daughter of the late Howard and Lillian Kohler. Upon graduation from Lowville Academy, she furthered her education at Syracuse University School of Law, receiving a law degree. She was Lewis County Public Defender for 25 years, had her own private practice and was a law guardian. On May 18, 1974, Joanne was married to Theodore R. Smith in Clarence, NY with Rev. Robert Sillars, officiating. Mr. Smith died in 2004. In addition to being a member of the Lewis County and New York State Bar Association, Joanne was also a member of MENSA. She was an artisan at heart who enjoyed wood carving and quilting and was an avid animal lover. Joanne is survived by children: Debora Anne Smith of Lowville; Edward Theodore Smith of Detroit, MI and Robert Frederick Smith of Niagara Falls, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, April 16th at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Herb Swanson officiating. Burial will follow at the Brantingham Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. Memorials in Mrs. Smith's name may be made to: American Heart Association.