The Smith-Ruzzo Funeral Home had its roots in the O'Neil & Flynn Furniture Co. John Smith established his funeral business in 1919 as their successor. At the turn of the 20th century it was common for furniture dealers to provide funeral services because they could supply the caskets and they possessed the teams of horses to cortege the funeral to the cemetery for burial.

     John Smith's first establishment solely for funerals was located on Church Street in downtown Meriden. Subsequently he relocated to 226 West Main Street. In 1933 he moved across the street to 226 West Main Street where operated his funeral home until his death in 1952.

     Al Ruzzo purchased that business from his estate that same year .Mr. Ruzzo, a Waterbury native, came to Meriden after successfully managing the Henry E. Bishop Funeral Home in Bridgeport, CT. Initially he kept the Smith name, but upon renovating and expanding the facility he incorporated the business as the Smith-Ruzzo funeral Home in 1955.

     Al Ruzzo retired from his funeral practice in 2002 after half a century of dedication and service. During that time he and his wife Patricia Phalen Ruzzo also of Waterbury raised five children. During his years in funeral service Al served as the City Treasurer from 1966 to 1970. He was a charter member of the Meriden Child Guidance Clinic. He served on the World War II Veterans Memorial Hospital Commission. Al was a WWII veteran serving as a pharmacist's mate and landed with the second wave on Normandy's beaches on D-day.

     Mr. Ruzzo was an active Kiwanian and was awarded a life membership for his many years of service to the organization and the community of Meriden. Al is the oldest member and the sole remaining individual who joined the Unison Club of Meriden just after it was chartered. Still active Mr. Ruzzo visits local high schools and presents business and management programs based upon his long-time operation of his funeral home.