Former U.S. Representative Lawrence J. Smith, a powerhouse of South Florida politics who served five terms in Congress and became a leading voice on foreign affairs, died on May 6, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Lawrence Jack Smith attended public schools in East Meadow before studying at New York University from 1958 to 1961. He earned his Bachelor of Laws from Brooklyn Law School in 1964 and later received a Juris Doctor in 1967. He was admitted to the New York bar in 1964, but his relocation to the South and subsequent admission to the Florida bar in 1972 served as the true launchpad for his public service career. He quickly established himself in local governance, serving as the chairman of the Hollywood, Florida, Planning and Zoning Board from 1974 to 1978. This local leadership propelled him into the Florida House of Representatives, where he represented the 96th district from 1978 to 1982.

Elected as a Democrat to the 98th United States Congress, Smith served five consecutive terms from 1983 to 1993. In Washington, he balanced high-level foreign policy with pragmatic local advocacy. As a prominent member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, he was recognized as a leading advocate for Israel, focusing heavily on Middle-East policy and arms sales regulations. According to the Jewish Virtual Library, his dedication to the security of Israel was unwavering throughout his career, making him a vital voice on the committee. He also introduced H.R. 4994 to exempt the property of the Jewish War Veterans, U.S.A. National Memorial from taxation in the District of Columbia.

Domestically, Smith was a fierce federal legislator who sat on the House Judiciary Committee and the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control. During his committee work, he advocated for stronger drug interdiction and education programs, noting that the fight against illegal drugs requires not just enforcement, but a commitment to education and rehabilitation. He also championed practical legislation, such as sponsoring H.R. 2134, an amendment to the Federal Meat Inspection Act that authorized the distribution of wholesome meat to charities and public agencies, as documented by Chamber Zero. Through it all, his legislative philosophy remained grounded in his belief that public service is a privilege that requires a deep commitment to the community you represent. Colleagues remembered him as a powerhouse in Washington who always put the needs of Broward County first.

After leaving Congress in 1993, Smith returned to his roots as a dedicated local attorney. He operated his own law offices in Fort Lauderdale, Tallahassee, and Washington, D.C., maintaining his influence in both the legal and political spheres. In 2012, he joined the law firm Kelley Kronenberg as Special Counsel and Government Relations Liaison, a role he held until his retirement.

He is survived by his wife, Sheila Cohen, and their two children, including his son Grant. Lawrence J. Smith leaves behind a legacy defined by his dual identity as a formidable national statesman and a devoted community advocate. He will be remembered for his steadfast defense of international allies, his practical approach to domestic legislation, and his enduring commitment to the people of South Florida.