James G Smith

Jim was born in Orange, NJ to Harry and Isabel (nee Gurney) Smith. He graduated from St. Benedicts Prep and Seton Hall University. He served in the Army Reserves where he was a Drill Instructor. He met his wife of 61 years, Dee Smith (nee Ardizzone), at a CYO dance and they were married in October of 1960. He lived with his family in Chatham Twp, NJ for many years before retiring and moving to Forked River in 2000.  Jim was a Computer Systems Designer and Senior Systems Officer at Wachovia Bank, Newark, NJ. He was also an active Knights of Columbus member at St Patrick’s Church in Chatham, NJ.

A hard worker and family man, Jim was actively involved in Corpus Christi Church in Chatham Twp, NJ where he enjoyed singing in the choir.  Jim was also a founding member of the Morris County Militia Fife & Drum Corp in Chatham Boro and President & Bass Drummer of the NJ Colonial Militia Ancient Fife and Drum Corp based in Morristown NJ.  He marched in many parades playing the bass drum he made by hand.  The shore was his favorite place and he enjoyed many happy years in Atlantic Highlands and Cape May.  Jim was father to James, Marian (Mike) and Lauren (Garry) and grandfather to Shea and Gavin. He is predeceased by his mother, father, Aunt Marion Gurney and brother Harry Smith Jr. and his wife Mary.

Please join us as we celebrate Jim’s life at a Memorial Mass on Saturday, July 16th at 11:30am at St Pius X Church in Forked River. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to the Joy of Music Program in Jim’s honor at www.jomp.org/donate , or St Jude’s Children’s Hospital.  

Wendy & Richard Ardizzone
Joy of  Music Program
1 Gorham St. Worcester, Mass. 01605
508 - 856-9541
jomp.org/donate
 

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