Larry Smith is a mainstay and fixture of America's science fiction conventions (as well as many overseas events); he's someone I've conversed with dozens of times, and, like John Scalzi, I always made a point of signing his stock because I knew that anything I signed for Larry would go all around the nation.
Larry died suddenly on January 20th, survived by his wife and business partner, the gracious Sally Kobee.
Larry will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to Sally.
My thoughts now are with Sally and his numerous friends, who will all miss him deeply. As for me, many of the books on my shelves were originally on his. I think I'll take one down tonight and read it in his memory, and with thanks.
RIP, Larry Smith
[John Scalzi/Whatever]