Obituary of James W. Smith, Jr.

James Warren Smith, Jr., passed away too soon on March 3 at 77 after a 20-year heroic battle with Parkinson’s Disease.  “Jim,” to all who were lucky enough to know him, is survived by his devoted wife and soulmate of nearly 30 years Diane D’Amato Smith, and their much-loved children: James Smith III (Melissa), Christopher Smith (Dawn), Toby (Masha) Smith, Andrew (Jessica) D’Amato and Jessica (Christopher) Case.  “Pop Jim” also is survived by his cherished grandchildren, Kiernan, James IV, Griffen, Hunter, Nala, Bridgette, Deja, Anika and Marley, and great-grandchild Carter, as well as by his siblings Janet Newman, Roger and Russell (Laurel) Smith, and sister-in-law Carol Ketcham (Paul) and special uncles Ernie and Bobby, and three aunts, all named Terry Smith, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his loving parents, James and Babette Smith.

A lifelong resident of Long Island, Jim grew up in Lindenhurst, and moved to Massapequa in 1993.  Jim honorably served his country for 5 years as a Navy Corpsman and member of the Navy Reserve.  After graduating from BOCES, Jim offered the highest level of patient care as an LPN prior to joining the Amityville Police Force to serve and protect the community as a Patrolman for 35 years before retiring in 1998.  A 50 year member of the PBA, Jim proudly marched in annual Amityville parades that celebrated our nation. 

When not with his family or helping others, Jim enormously enjoyed spending time with his former police force partner Ronnie, playing cards with his lifelong friends Barney, “T”, Ronnie, Phil, George and John riding his classic motorcycles including his 1965 Harley Davidson with sidecar, and adding to his extensive collection of motorcycle license plates.

A loving husband, devoted father and true gentleman with a quiet demeanor, Jim was unfailingly kind, thoughtful and fun.  He remains deeply loved by family and friends, and will be missed greatly by them and everyone else fortunate enough to be in his life.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, March 8, 2023, from 2-4:30 & 7-9:30 pm at the Powell Funeral Home, Inc, 67 Broadway (Rt. 110), Amityville. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, March 9, 2023, at 9:00 am in St. Mary’s Church, 175 Broadway, Amityville.  Burial with military honors will follow in the Amityville Cemetery.  Please come share your stories and celebrate Jim’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the American Parkinson Disease Association and Autism Speaks.