BOARDMAN - The Ohio Senate passed a bill designating a part of State Route 7 in Mahoning County to honor the life and legacy of a former Boardman resident.

Senate Bill 216 designates the northbound and southbound lanes of State Route 7 between Washington Boulevard and Western Reserve Road in Mahoning County as the "Clarence 'Sonny' Smith, Jr. Memorial Highway."

Smith was heavily involved in the Youngstown area, as he served on the Boardman School Board for over a decade, was inducted into Youngstown State University's Athletics Hall of Fame, and was a successful businessman as a former co-chairman of Compco Industries.

"Sonny Smith poured his heart and soul to the Mahoning Valley. His philanthropy across the community...affected the lives of countless Ohioans. This bill recognizes a great citizen for the Youngstown community," said State Senator Al Cutrona.

Smith died on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at the age of 92.

In 2025, plans to build a first responders wellness center in Boardman were made, and it was set to be named after Smith as well.

In October 2025, the "Clarence R. Smith Jr.'s Family Mahoning Valley First Responder Wellness Center" opened its doors. More on this story can be found in the related coverage below.

 

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